“This means a lot to me because it’s something important in my life, and it’s shaped me into who I am. God has always been there for me, and being able to take such a huge part of my life and involving it in school is incredible. I can share my love for God with others who feel the same as me, and it’s awesome to have that kind of connection with people,” said Sami Morad ’17.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is an organization that runs internationally to help connect people to God through sharing their faith based experiences as coaches and athletes. In years’ prior, FCA faded out and stopped running. Morad is this year’s student advisor for the group. She revitalized FCA last October, and has had the help from Mr. Robert Barnshaw, who agreed to be the faculty advisor.
Furthermore, Morad discovered the idea of refounding FCA back in WTHS at a banquet for the 65th anniversary of her Christian camp. Her family was seated with a couple at a table who raised a question asking if Morad’s school ran a Christian club.
The couple provided Morad with an incentive, and pushed her in the direction of someone who could help by forwarding her contact information to Mr. Kevin Harvey. Harvey reached out to Morad to aid her in taking lead to revive the WTHS chapter of FCA.
In addition, Harvey is a chaplain for the Philadelphia 76ers Basketball Team. Basically, Harvey leads prayers for the team before games and other big events. Harvey’s position acquaints him with professional Christian athletes who are willing to vistit schools to share their faith and talk with the students.
Most recently, former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver, Mr. Jason Avant visited WTHS before Christmas and discussed how important it is to let God in our hearts. He reflected on his past, and how difficult his life was when he had trouble believing God was on his side. His story encouraged others to let the love of God in, and how beneficial it can be to strengthen one’s faith.
FCA meets Tuesdays after school at 2:20 in A-32. Generally, Morad creates her own lesson plans or uses one of FCA’s. While attendance isn’t quite yet where she would like it to be, Morad said that many students who have expressed interest have been unable to attend meetings because of in-season sports.
She is still enthusiastic about inviting anyone to check out the club. She said, “New members are always welcome. Students are not required to be a Christian or an athlete, the purpose of this club is to broaden your horizons and learn about Christianity”.