Our Kingdom Impact CrossFit competition was a day to remember, filled with blood, sweat, and the presence of Jesus. The event brought together inmates and free world competitors in a show of unity and camaraderie that transcended the boundaries of the prison walls.
From the moment the competition began, it was clear that this was no ordinary CrossFit event.
The inmates formed a tunnel to welcome the competitors, and as the day went on, both groups cheered each other on as if they were all on the same team. The spirit of support and encouragement was palpable, creating an atmosphere of positivity and unity.
During the lunch break, competitors and volunteers had the opportunity to fellowship over a meal and share their stories. Relationships were formed, and bonds were strengthened as people from different backgrounds came together in the name of fitness and faith.
The testimony portion of the event was particularly powerful, with our very own volunteer Jacob Muñoz sharing his personal journey and words of encouragement with the inmates. His message of perseverance and hope resonated with everyone in attendance, reminding them that…
…there is a better life outside the walls of the prison, with Jesus at the center of it all.
Inmate after inmate shared the impact that CrossFit training had on them, not just physically and emotionally, but spiritually as well. The accountability and support provided by the group was a source of strength and encouragement for all involved, showing the transformative power of faith and community.
As the final competition came to a close, the yard was filled with cheers and high-fives, and one inmate remarked that it was the first day in prison that didn’t feel like prison. This powerful statement spoke to the freeing power of God’s presence among his children, and the lasting impact that this event had on all who participated.
The CrossFit competition was more than just a physical challenge – it was a testament to the power of faith, community, and unity. Lives were changed, relationships were formed, and the glory of God shone through in every moment.
This event was a true blessing, and its impact will be felt for years to come.
Testimonials from the event:
Fabulous, camaraderie, fun and spiritual healing! A little bit of competition with passion for faith and fitness. As a mother of an incarcerated loved one, I love that events like this can help him feel less incarcerated and more human.
Thank you,
Carrie
The competition filled up my heart so much and I went through a whirlwind of emotions. My husband was incarcerated 15 years and has been home for 2 years. So going back into a unit gave me flashbacks that I found myself almost having a panic attack as soon as we went through the first set of gates. However, I prayed and God put it in my heart that it wasn’t about me, it was about the guys we were going in there to serve and love on.
Seeing how these men had been training for months and gave it 100% was amazing but also seeing the camaraderie. When one man would fall behind there was 3 more right behind motivating to push forward. I had the privilege to be behind the lens and capture a few beautiful moments. As I was sitting on the concrete taking a picture tears began to just flow out of me. They were happy tears, I told God thank you so much for the opportunity to just be able to be there and witness what I did. These men were so respectful and so well spoken.
I will forever cherish that day; I still can’t stop talking about it. I pray that God will open up the doors to more units allowing a CrossFit competition and that more volunteers would come and help. I also pray that God would continue to allow my husband and I to serve where it is needed.
Kind Regards,
Liset
Volunteer
