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Sports Tournament Uniting Eastern Europe

sports2On 20-22 January 2017, Youth for Christ Eastern Europe organized an International Christmas Tournament at one of the sport bases in Belarus. One hundred and forty participants from 5 nations – Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Latvia, Moldova – during 3 days became part of the large sporting celebration. As many as 75% of the participants were unbelievers.

Each match started with prayer of two opposing teams. Chaplains shared their testimonies and the Gospel very accessibly and the songs also proclaimed God’s heart. All these components helped participants to think about God. The Team from Minsk became the winner of the Tournament through a tense final. Medals of second and third places were won by two teams from Ukraine. Many of the participants reported wanting to come again next year.

sports3Feedback from participants

Team Kifa (Zitomir, Ukraine): It was the first time for our team to take part in this Tournament. It was excellent. We liked the place where  the tournament was held – the base is perfect. Referees are good level! Soccer team MIRT (St. Petersburg, Russia): Our team took part in the tournament for the third time this year. Each year we have only positive impressions! I am going to the tournament not only for medals but also to see my friends, meet new people and use this opportunity to talk about Jesus with players on our team. For me it is like a small mission trip.