Muscular Christianity argued that there is something good and godly about brute strength and power. Physical weakness was considered to be unnatural because it was only a reflection of moral spiritual weakness. So people tried to overcome physical weakness as an effort to be Christian, moral, and good. Sport activities came to be seen as an effort to be a good Christian. Christians believed that the body was a temple and so they thought they were obligated to care for and develop one's physical being.

Some of the cherished ideals of muscular Christianity have not lost their appeal among religious and sports leaders in the new millennium. On October 28, 2000, the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II, officiated at the opening of a weeklong celebration of sport called the Sports Jubilee. He urged athletes and officials to abide by the inh

CEI's purpose is both discipleship and evangelism. They want to provide a safe environment where Christian athletes and coaches can be trained and equipped in sharing their faith, to grow in their faith, and to gain a world vision. And most importantly, to share the gospel with the people of the countries in which they travel to.

CEI also provides opportunities to athletes and coaches for international travel along with sports and cultural exchange. CEI teams up with churches, missionaries, other ministries, and sports federations around the world to provide this opportunity.

There is no doubt that sport has a high influence on our culture. One survey indicated that nearly 94% of Americans have some sort of interest in sports. Not only is it a great way to connect with and reach people here in the U.S., but sports is also an international language we can speak fluently. God has given athletes and coaches a natural way to share their faith. Often times the teams find themselves sharing with people who would not typically set foot in a church or sponsored outreach, but will attend a sporting event. I think that both sports and Christianity wouldn't be what it is today without one another.

erent benefits of sport, especially the spiritual and human ideals. The Pope said, "Sport is not an end but a means. It can become a vehicle of civility and genuine fun, pushing people to give the best of themselves on the field, shunning that which can be of danger or serious damages to themselves and others." His belief in the contributions that sport has the potential to make, reflect some of

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