Just as most sports contests experience an ebb and flow, so it is with sports ministry. Athletes in Action president, Mark Householder shares some valuable insight as it relates to ministry and sport…the ups, downs and growing opportunities. With over 40 years of leading a world-wide ministry to athletes, coaches and others, Mark opens his heart as to how sports ministry has impacted his walk with Christ and how he desires to impact others as he Powers Up for Christ. 

Bio: Mark came to Christ on the campus of the University of Cincinnati in 1977 when an Athletes in Action staff member shared the Four Spiritual Laws with him.  Five years later, as a graduating engineering student, Mark clearly felt the Lord's call to enter the mission after taking a staff interview during a spring break conference in Daytona Beach. Mark joined staff in 1982 and was placed in Cincinnati in a role that was split between campus field staff at the University of Cincinnati and office administration that served campus and pro staff across the U.S. Over the years, Mark has served in various roles within Athletes in Action, including leading campus and pro staff, the Ultimate Training Camp and various international projects and assignments.  He has served as AIA's fourth president since 2009.

Mark and Marianne were married in 1985 and have three adult children: Lauren, married to Mark Sjoberg, and two sons, Robbie, married to Katie, and Garrett. The Householders have four grandchildren; Ezra, Wyatt, Avery and Knox.  Marianne's role with AIA includes serving and supporting our staff. She loves people and has served AIA staff over the years by applying her gifts and abilities in the areas of leadership development, ethnic diversity, donor relations, and staff care.

Mark loves to work in the mission, and a number of years ago Marianne exhorted him to develop some hobbies.  That was great advice.  Mark loves the outdoors, has recently played more golf and loves to grill and smoke meat.  He currently is on a quest to smoke the "perfect brisket."

Links/Books/Resources:

Athletes in Action:  https://athletesinaction.org

The Heart of an Athlete 30-Day Devotional PDF: https://file.ac/UvlI0UtgjKE/

Join Power Up Family here on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/powerupsports/

Sports Ministry Certificate Program through Our Daily Bread University @ odbu.org/sports

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