Every Thursday morning before school students gather for FCA: Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Since January of 2022, these meetings have been a safe place for many. Started at Lowellville by Hadassah Rivera and Anthony Vrabel, FCA has become popular among students who want to learn more about the Gospel and strengthen their connection with God. Despite the name, you do not have to be an athlete to attend.
Hadassah contacted Bob Kimpbel, the leader of all FCA organizations, and explained that she wanted to start one at Lowellville. After a meeting with Mrs. Parry the meetings started. Mrs. Parry added, “I think the values of FCA like teamwork, respect, and discipline align with what we do in the building and giving them (FCA) is important.”
Hadassah and Anthony created FCA to give students a place to learn about the Gospel. “I was inspired to start FCA because as a student I see the hurt and pain in some kids’ eyes and I wanted them to know they had a safe place and that Jesus is always there for them,” Hadassah stated.
The organization’s main goals are to show others joy, inspire students to reach to their own hearts, and teach the Gospel. A typical morning meeting starts with either Hadassah or Anthony sharing a Bible lesson for around 15-20 minutes, where students are asked questions and give feedback. Then it ends with a prayer. When asked what message they are trying to convey Hadassah said, “…there is a real God who loves them and created them for a purpose. A God who gives true joy and peace.”
Anthony added, “I’m trying to spread the love of Jesus.”
The success of FCA is seen through the students. Zak Sargent is a junior and has been attending for two years. He has learned to follow God’s footsteps in many ways, such as reading the Bible, praying, attending church, and getting involved in his religious community. For him FCA has been a reminder to keep focus on God.
Kaden and Eliza Primous have also been attending FCA for two years. Outside of school the Primous family regularly attends Victory Church. Eliza shared how FCA has affected her, saying, “It definitely makes me think how I can change my daily life, especially in school. It makes you more aware of everyone and how everyone is affected by your actions.”
Kaden said, “ he feels supported and able to open up about problems” when he attends FCA.
Both Kaden and Eliza have learned how to be better role models and walk with God during their time at FCA.
Nataley Rolland is a freshman and attends FCA regularly. She opened up about how FCA has impacted. She said, “I feel like it is a safe space and I’m really happy we can talk about God with each other.” She added that it brings her joy and makes her motivated to go to school. Nataley also believes that FCA is something that students have really benefited from because they can talk freely about personal issues in a non judgmental space.
When asked about the growth of FCA, the responses are optimistic. Anthony and Hadassah plan to pass their leadership down to underclassmen before they graduate, hoping to continue spreading the word of God. “We hope to grow and keep FCA a part of Lowellville for as long as the school is around,” Anthony said.
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