Christian News
‘The harvest is ready’: Jets and Bombers open up about faith at sold-out Winnipeg event
Manitoba sports fans once again filled the Metropolitan Entertainment Centre for an evening of inspiration, music, and faith as the 12th annual Pro Sports and Faith (PSF) Night took place on Wednesday, Sept. 24. The sold-out event is held in support of Lorne Korol, a missionary with Athletes in Action who serves as the chaplain for the Winnipeg Jets, Blue Bombers, and Manitoba Moose. Korol, who must raise 100 per cent of his salary and operating budget each year, has become a key figure behind the scenes of Winnipeg's pro sports teams. PSF Night not only supports his ministry financially, but also offers fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at how faith is shaping the lives of some of Manitoba’s most recognizable athletes. Sharing stories of struggle and strength The evening was hosted by CHVN’s Mike Thom and featured musical performances and reflections from Juno-nominated artist Don Amero. But the heart of the event was in the stories shared by players who stepped away from the spotlight of the field and the rink to speak about their personal lives and spiritual journeys. Representing the Winnipeg Jets were Parker Ford, Cole Perfetti, Eric Comrie, Gabe Vilardi, team captain Adam Lowry, and Mark Scheifele. From the Blue Bombers, the lineup included Sergio Castillo, Willie Jefferson, Evan Holm, Nick Hallett, Jonathan Jones, Jerreth Sterns, Kyrie Wilson, Devin Adams, and Jay Person. Also in attendance were coaches Richie Hall, James Stanley and Darrell Patterson, along with Bomber ambassador Brandon Alexander. Korol led two key conversations during the night. The first was a panel featuring Jefferson, Hallett, Holm and Comrie, who spoke openly about the role the teams’ chapel plays in helping them find community, stay grounded, and face the pressures that come with professional sports. Several players said the ability to gather regularly, pray, and be vulnerable with one another has contributed to the healthy locker room culture that both the Bombers and Jets have built in recent years. Castillo reflects on redemption, fatherhood and faith under pressure The second conversation was a one-on-one with Blue Bombers kicker Sergio Castillo, who shared deeply personal reflections about growing up with an absent father and his desire to break that cycle with his own children. He also spoke about a redemptive moment last season in Montreal. After missing a field goal late in the game, Castillo had a chance to kick again in the final seconds — this time sealing a win and clinching the West Division. He recalled how, in the swirling wind and rain, Galatians 6:9 suddenly came to mind: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” In that moment, he says he thought, “The rain is coming, the harvest is ready.” Castillo said he leans on Scripture in all areas of life and doesn’t place faith in his own ability, but rather in Christ. Other players echoed that sentiment, discussing how chapel and faith provide an outlet to process both personal and professional challenges, from family issues to the unrelenting attention of fans and media. Continuing the work The Jets head to Edmonton Friday night for preseason action, while the 7–7 Bombers host the 9–5 Hamilton Tiger-Cats Saturday at Princess Auto Stadium. Korol's work extends beyond players to include coaches, staff, and families, providing spiritual care and support in an often high-pressure environment. He and other Athletes in Action staff are also turning their sights to the Grey Cup, which is being hosted in Winnipeg this year on November 16. Part of the championship-week festivities will include a prayer breakfast hosted by Athletes in Action the day before the big game.