Resources

World Cup Evangelism

The World Cup (and the nations) are coming to the United States this summer!

It is the perfect time for PA/SJ churches to engage their communities!

ARE YOU READY?

Over 5 billion people will be watching the world’s biggest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup 2026! Sixteen major cities throughout North America, including Philadelphia and New York City, will host soccer matches that are expected to draw crowds of 15-25 million people who will come from all over the world to watch the games or be part of the festivities surrounding the events.

Philadelphia is a major host city for the 2026 World Cup, hosting six matches at the Lincoln Financial Field, including a Round of 16 knockout game on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with Philadelphia hosting five group-stage games.

The Baptist Resource Network has compiled resources to help you evangelize others through this incredible opportunity!

Digitally Engage:

The International Mission Board (IMB) has established an engagement strategy that it has utilized during the last three Olympic cycles to make an impact on the global audience that will be paying attention to the games and events surrounding the World Cup. A key aspect of the approach directs individuals to a website IMB created that asks and answers the question: “Who am I?” Visitors to the site will see the page and all its resources in their own language. They will be able to hear a virtual Gospel translation and download a copy of God’s Word.

The North America Mission Board (NAMB) is offering soccer-themed resources – stickers, patches, lanyards and wristbands – that direct people to the “Who Am I?” site through QR codes. Whether hosting watch parties, attending the fan fests or doing street evangelism, these resources can help believers initiate Gospel conversations.

Participate in the Yellow Card Initiative:

The Yellow Card Initiative seeks to engage the nations with the gospel through soccer terminology, creating natural opportunities to share the good news of Jesus. This effort uses the “yellow card,” a phrase in the global language of soccer that signifies a warning that a player has broken the rules and that if they don’t change, they’ll be out. The hope is that this Yellow Card serves as a warning about the seriousness of breaking God’s rules, but even more, that it signifies the hope found in Jesus, who took the penalty for our sins.

Host Watch Parties/Pop-Up Sports and Games:

Invite neighbors and community members to watch or play matches together, creating a natural setting for conversation and gospel witness. Host neighborhood kids’ games and other family-friendly opportunities to engage your neighbors.

Keep these key rules in mind when planning your event:

Broadcast Legally: You cannot legally download, copy, or redistribute the live broadcast feed. You must show it live using standard equipment (like your sanctuary projector or a TV) exactly as it airs on an authorized channel.
No Admission Fees: You cannot charge an admission fee to watch the games. However, you are generally allowed to accept donations or sell food and drinks to help cover the cost of the event.
Watch Your Marketing: FIFA’s official logos (including the tournament marks) and branding are heavily protected. Do not use the official World Cup or FIFA logos, or any trademarked team names, on your flyers, social media, or website to promote the party.

Cru’s Victory Beyond the Cup shares how to use this cultural moment by encouraging your church to host watch parties and more. A free digital pastor kit provides flexible, done-for-you tools to help you mobilize your church (including sermon outlines, small group discussion questions, slides and social graphics, and bumper and countdown videos).

Pick Up Games in Your City:

Tips for Finding the Right Game: