Pickleball at Schweitzer Church is more than a great game. It is a vital, growing, and life-changing ministry.
Our second on-campus Serve Pickleball Tournament drew 100 players and raised $13,000 for the Flourish Girls ministry at Pipkin Middle School! This was made possible by many committed sponsors, including the Schweitzer Church Foundation, which served as the lead sponsor.
Wayne Thompson, Flourish Executive Director, expressed, “We at Flourish are deeply grateful for the incredible generosity shown through the tourney. The passion for community, friendly competition, and meaningful service helped raise vital support and expand awareness of the Flourish Girls program through Springfield. Thank you to everyone who worked tirelessly to make this event such a success.”
Hospitality was a priority from the start, and Keith and Karen Breithaupt, the Hospitality Directors, delivered. Keith and Karen said, “Scripture compels us to serve others with a smile, a drink, and a snack. We’re privileged to speak to the hearts of the pickleball community via the tourney. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to use our spiritual gift of hospitality.”
Behind the scenes, Tourney Directors Scott Thomas and Matt Mancado made sure every detail reflected excellence, and the players felt it.
“To be given the opportunity to reach so many people through the game of pickleball as the Serve Pickleball Tournament director is an incredible privilege,” said Scott Thomas. “I feel lucky to be involved with such a great group of people, and knowing that our collective efforts will create positive life change in the Flourish Girls ministry makes me immensely proud. What an awesome way to be utilized by God!”
As a Christ Centered, Community Focused church, we believe that God may use anything—yes, even a pickleball paddle—to serve and love the community. We simply need to embrace our holy imaginations! Thanks to the Schweitzer Church Foundation for making it possible.