Sports Chaplaincy UK Hosting Annual Conference

The radical message of Jesus was to be inclusive. We perhaps do not fully appreciate the radical moves that he made in breaking down barriers and opening the Kingdom wide. Women were given a place and a voice, along with those who had been excluded by others, including those with disease, the poor and marginalised. It made him prophetic in his mission and unpopular with the society of the day. Inclusion is a Kingdom word and value that needs to be reflected in our chaplaincy. By definition therefore there is no room for exclusivity and it is important that in our work we are not seen to be available just for the “stars” of our club or organisations.

Inclusion is also becoming a key word and value in the wider world of sport. Recent Government announcements from the Sports Minister makes it very clear that any funding will be around an inclusion agenda of encouraging BAME, (Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic) communities, those with disability,  girls and women to engage in sport. Sporting bodies are also challenging their sports on the inclusion agenda and there are a number of codes of good practice and standards that Clubs are now expected to achieve and maintain.

As Chaplains we have a part to play in this work which we shall explore in this year’s Conference.  Building on the model of the last two years this will include inspirational speakers, practical and theological reflection along with engaging workshops.

Those interested in attending the conference need to book soon! Click the hyperlinks above to be directed to the SCUK website.