ERIE (BRN) – Millcreek Community Church (MCC) in Erie, Pennsylvania, had the privilege of hosting the Gannon University football team for a special evening of food, encouragement and Gospel impact.
Approximately 150 people attended from players, to coaches and staff. From the moment they arrived, each player was personally greeted by men from our church who were there to connect, serve and build genuine relationships.
We prepared a homemade meal that included fettuccine alfredo with grilled chicken, spaghetti with meatballs and red sauce, salad, rolls and dessert.
Each guest also received a gift bag containing a water bottle, sports drink, beef sticks, Propel mix, a protein bar, a church information card, pen and other small items. A prayer card was placed at every seat, giving each player a tangible way to share prayer needs or spiritual next steps.
During the evening, the gospel was presented through a powerful testimony from one of our members – a bodybuilder and former professional athlete – who shared how surrendering his life to Christ transformed his identity and purpose.
Around 150 individuals heard the Gospel, and our team members had numerous one-on-one conversations throughout the night. We received more than 30 completed prayer cards, with eight men specifically requesting follow-up about how to grow deeper in their walk with the Lord.
The players were respectful, appreciative and engaged throughout the evening, and the coaches were moved by the hospitality and love shown by our church family. The event created an incredible bridge between our congregation and the Gannon athletic community, and we are already planning a similar outreach dinner for the Gannon basketball team in the near future.
Have an outreach event you would like to host, but could use a little help when it comes to the cost? Apply for a BRN Evangelism Grant today by visiting brnunited.org/grant!
