Sport and Christianity

By Andrew Parker

Book Description

For countless individuals, sports represent far more than mere recreation or competition. They embody passion, dedication, and moments of transcendence that touch something deeper within the human experience. Yet how often do we pause to examine the profound connections between athletic participation and our spiritual lives?

Matt Hoven brings together diverse academic voices from philosophy, theology, sports studies, and education to explore this compelling intersection. This thoughtful examination invites readers to discover how their involvement in sports—whether as participants or observers—can align with and enrich their Christian faith.

The book unfolds across three essential dimensions of human experience: practices for the mind, heart, and moral life. Readers will encounter fresh perspectives on play's inherent value, explore how athletic endeavors can bridge different faith traditions, and discover sports as fertile ground for cultivating virtue and spiritual growth. The discussion extends to prayer and religious experiences within competitive contexts, offering practical insights for integrating faith and athletics.

Rather than treating sports and spirituality as separate spheres, this work reveals their natural harmony. It challenges readers to recognize how their deepest athletic passions can reflect and strengthen their spiritual values, while providing newcomers with a solid framework for understanding this relationship.

The result is an invitation to view sports through a transformative lens, discovering new depths of meaning in activities that already hold significant place in daily life.