California comes to Canton with IHS Bball

By Guest Columnist Sophie Abuzeid

It has been In His Steps Ministries’ (IHS) privilege to partner with Crossway Community Church of Brea, California for the past 11 years. This summer, the group from Crossway came to Canton to host our annual basketball camp, lead devotionals, and share career and personal development workshops with local youth. This year marks the first camp in two years since the pandemic postponed previous trips. The Crossway group contributed to our mission of impacting the community through a holistic, gospel-driven approach. The basketball camp took place at Huey L. Porter Middle School each morning during the week of July 24-29. We are grateful for the continued partnership with Canton public schools over the years. About 50 children, ranging from 9-15 years old, attended the camp, where they were able to have fun, learn new skills, and be encouraged by mentors. Fifteen local volunteers and coaches contributed to the impact of the camp. Many of the volunteer coaches were participants in the camp as youth and have come back to volunteer. The objectives were for the youth to learn the fundamentals of basketball, develop cross-cultural friendships, grow Christian character, and practice sportsmanship. Each day, a bible devotional was shared with the youth. On the last day of camp, Christin Howard, IHS Sports Ministry Director, shared the gospel and encouraged the youth to maintain the proper priorities in life.

In the afternoon, the Crossway group led career, arts and crafts, and food classes for students. They were able to create and express themselves while learning new skills. The career workshop gave local youth an opportunity to talk to professionals about their chosen fields and explore any questions they might have. Amongst the Crossway group were doctors, lawyers, nurses, and other occupations who shared their experiences with the kids. The youth were eager to learn about potential career opportunities and build connections. The workshop continued the IHS objective of exposing our youth to potential career opportunities and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.

By embodying a compassionate attitude, the mission team focused on the needs of the youth in our community. Each child attending the camp was given a T-shirt and backpack by the Crossway group, making them feel special.  Many of the team members sacrificed their time and resources to be in Canton this summer, and we are so grateful for their dedication to this partnership. In scripture, Christians are commanded to love and serve their neighbors as part of the Great Commission (Matthew 22:36-40). We have seen evidence of God at work through our relationship with Crossway Community Church as they served the community in Canton. In His Steps Ministries is always open to inviting individuals and groups to participate in impacting Canton, Mississippi.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Sophie Abuzeid is the Media and Communications Specialist for In His Steps Ministries. Abuzeid is an alumna of Mississippi College and now resides in her hometown of San Antonio, TX.