A summertime hockey tournament that’s been bringing together church teams in Abbotsford, B.C. for three years saw Gateway Community Christian Reformed Church join this August for the first time.
“Battle of the Churches” brings together Christians from different denominations for a weekend of hockey, fellowship, and fundraising. Hosted this year at the Sardis Sports Complex in Chilliwack, B.C., and the Summit Ice in Abbotsford, the tournament attracted around 240 players from 14 teams and raised approximately $125,000 (after expenses) to support Safe Families Canada, an organization that helps vulnerable children and families in crisis.
“It was a great time getting to know others in the congregation and community while supporting a worthwhile cause,” said Shawn Arends, organizer of the Gateway team, which was sponsored by local business leaders from the Gateway community.
Jennifer Gamache, regional director for Safe Families Canada Lower Mainland Chapter, said the tournament was started by people who love hockey and wanted to support local families.
Safe Families Canada runs on volunteers and works to keep “children safe and families together while ultimately pointing them to Jesus, where true hope and healing are found.” Operating in Canada since 2012, the organization does not receive government funding. It opened a chapter in B.C. three years ago, which is when hosting a tournament as a fundraiser came to mind.
“We came together and formed a committee and ran it our first year, and it was amazing,” Gamache said. “And then we’ve just done it every year since.”
This year included a recreational division as more people wanted to play and contribute. “We had so many volunteers. Everyone came together. We had businesses donating, individuals donating. Everyone could contribute in a way that was meaningful to them. We couldn’t do it without everyone’s input,” Gamache said.
The Gateway team, which lost in the quarterfinals to eventual tournament champions, Central Community Church, appreciated the chance to connect with people outside of their congregation and support families in need. They hope to participate again next year.
About the Author
Dan Veeneman is a lifelong learner, avid reader, and writer who enjoys exploring the places where faith, life, and culture intersect. He lives in St. Albert, Alberta, with his wife and three children, and they worship at Sturgeon Valley Baptist Church. When he is not writing, Dan can often be found with a good book and a cup of coffee. He writes regularly on faith and life at Dan Veeneman’s Substack.