Slo-Pitch Baseball: A Home Run for the Kingdom

A few weeks ago, Winkler, Manitoba, was filled with more than just the sound of bats and cheers; it was filled with faith, joy, and purpose. Our Second Annual Slo-Pitch Baseball Tournament brought together teams, families, and supporters for a day that went far beyond the game.

The heart behind this event was simple: to raise funds so more children around the world can hear the Gospel through Bible camps and follow-up programs. Because of this one tournament, nearly 5,600 children will come to know the God who loves them. What a powerful reminder of how faith in action can change lives for eternity.

The Results

Thanks to the incredible generosity of all involved, we raised approximately $28,000! 

• First place in fundraising went to the Silver Sluggers, raising just over $6,000.

• Second place went to the Jalapeño Poppers, who raised around $4,000.

• The Bergfeld team, representing Bergfeld Mennonite Church, was another highlight, raising over $2,500.

• Each of the six teams contributed $300.

Additional support came from sponsors, donors, raffle sales (including a 50/50 and social raffle), visitor donations, and team registrations. Every support helped turn this tournament into something eternal.

Behind the Scenes

Long before the first pitch, God was already moving. Steve faithfully visited local businesses to invite sponsorships and donations, raising a significant portion even before the tournament began. Contributions flowed in through cheques, e-transfers, and our website, all seeds of faith planted in advance of the event.

During the tournament, the community’s generosity continued: around $500 came in from visitors, plus another $1,000 from raffle ticket sales. Each of the six teams—Silver Sluggers, Jalapeño Poppers, Bergfeld, Base Invaders, Gold Gloves, and Pur-vis Pylons—presented their totals, joyfully sharing how they had worked together to support the mission.

More Than a Game

When we look back, we see that this was so much more than a ballgame. It was a gathering of hearts eager to see lives transformed, a testimony of unity in Christ, and a celebration of God’s faithfulness. Together, we reaffirmed that there are many who long to see the Good News reach every corner of the world.

To every sponsor, donor, player, and supporter, thank you. Your prayers, encouragement, and generosity turned a day of baseball into a home run for the Kingdom. 

And yes, we are already looking forward to next year’s tournament! If you’d like to participate or know a team that would love to join, please spread the word. Let’s keep sowing seeds together, on and off the field.