Every four years one of the largest sporting events occurs in the Olympic Games. In conjunction with the Games, two sports ministry conferences take place:  ACE (Athletes, Cities and Events) and the World Leadership Conference. This year was no exception.

In Pattaya, Thailand this past November, more than 600 people came together from various sport ministries for the ACE Conference, while over 120 AIA staff members assembled for the WLC. 

Known as “The Land of Smiles,” Thailand boasts a culture rich in tradition and diversity. Ruled by a king, 95 percent of the country’s 65 million inhabitants are Buddhist. Although the two conference groups met in a country where Jesus isn’t recognized to many as Savior, His presence was known as each participant enjoyed one another’s company, cast vision, shared ministry stories and encouraged each other.

Located in Southern Thailand along the coast, Pattaya is a popular resort where human trafficking exists on most street corners. Temples and Buddha statues prevail, monks bring blessings to hurting souls, and Thai people busily attempt to make their next baht (Thai currency). While those outside went about their daily routines—many oblivious to God’s Spirit—AIA staff members experienced His presence inside conference room doors.

During the World Leadership Conference, Michael J., director of affairs for Campus Crusade for Christ in South Asia, reminded AIA staff members that spiritual renewal—both individually and corporately—comes by continually spending time with God and getting to know Him more intimately. The AIA staff family was reminded of the goal to “build spiritual movements everywhere through the platform of sport so everyone knows someone who truly follows Jesus.”

“The WLC is, in one sense, like a family reunion where we can renew relationships,” says Mark H., director of AIA’s international ministry. “But in another sense, it is a time to clarify vision, rediscover who we are and recommit to moving ahead [in the Athletes in Action work] with greater momentum. Through God’s help, the time in Thailand last month accomplished that.”

Full names of Athletes in Action staff members have been withheld to protect those serving in religious-sensitive countries.

Photos:

Top: View of Pattaya from hotel.

Center, left: Sunset in Pattaya.

Center, right: One of many miniature Buddist temples seen around the city. To the left is the flag of Thailand.

Bottom: AIA staff members from 62 countries came together for the World Leadership Conference in Pattaya. AIA has a presence in 75 countries worldwide.