Visit Ashland United Methodist Church in St. Joseph during football season, and you’ll learn quickly that you’ve entered Chiefs territory. The congregation is often decked out in red and gold, and Lead Pastor, Rev. Doug Walter, ends every service with a hearty, “Go Chiefs!” But in the Fall of 2023, Director of Youth Ministries, Tom Keller, had a crazy idea to bring a new kind of fandom to Ashland.
During their time at the 2023 UNITE Youth Conference hosted by Central Methodist University, Ashland Youth discovered something called eSports, which is basically competitive video games. It quickly became their favorite way to spend their free time during the conference, and many of the students were still talking about it when they returned home. That’s when Keller got an idea – why can’t we do this at Ashland?
After pitching the idea to Rev. Walter, who was enthusiastically on board, Keller got to work researching equipment, submitting grant proposals to help fund the project, and seeking support from the Ashland congregation. And even though the concept left people scratching their heads – what is eSports? – everyone was fully in support of reaching more youth in the community.
After receiving word that he had received funding for gaming stations from resources that included the Missouri United Methodist Foundation Ministry Grant program, Keller launched Ashland eSports in January 2024. Less than a year into the program, Ashland has already seen a significant increase in the number of students attending youth group and Sunday School gatherings. Students have free time to play games before coming together for worship and Bible study. Esports has created an incredible opportunity for youth in the St. Joseph community to connect with one another, form a community of friends, and learn about Jesus. Ashland also hosts eSports open-sessions twice a month that are open to anyone in the community, regardless of age.
As the program continues to grow, Keller hopes to expand the number of gaming stations available. He’s also helped launch a tech support program, which pairs students with individuals who have questions about how to use their phone, tablet, or computer, which has become a creative way to connect multiple generations within the church.
What are you dreaming of for YOUR church?
Twice each year, the Foundation Board receives and considers proposals for ministry projects from United Methodist churches and related agencies throughout Missouri. Applications can be found here, and must be postmarked by April 1 for Spring consideration and October 1 for Winter consideration.