“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners…” (Isaiah 61:1- NIV).

Ministry

The main emphasis of the Train at Tennis Ministry International Base (TTMI) program is to fulfill Jesus’ mandate to go and make disciples.  We focus on providing high-quality sports training, but it is important to keep in mind that athletic programs and skills are just tools to use in fulfilling God's call.  We are excited that you are getting ready for time of coaching and playing sports.  We hope that you will be equally prepared for leading small group discussions and sharing testimonies. It would also be great if you have other ways of sharing the Good News; such as through drama, music, juggling or any other talent God puts on your heart to use.

It is also important to remember that some of your ministry might not be directly related to sports or to organized times of sharing.  One-on-one times with students may be developed through other activities, ranging from offering tutorial help in English to just "hanging out" at McDonald’s.  Traveling around <this country> will place you in contact with thousands of people who need to hear the gospel.  Prepare yourself to look beyond the sports activities and be ready to share in a variety of situations.

Finally, we always try to run clinics and camps in partnership with Christians from local churches, youth groups and/or schools, clubs.  We don't expect to just put on a program; we want to encourage the church to be involved and learn how sports can be incorporated into their evangelism and discipleship programs.  With this in mind, part of your ministry may simply be to work for and bless these local Christians.  Remember that they will stay in <this country> to continue follow-up after your TTMI program has ended.

During TTMI, we also focus on Christ-centered relationships among the staff.  We will have regularly scheduled times for worship, prayer, sharing and fellowship to build unity and to encourage the disciple-like mentality of preferring one's neighbor over oneself.  We also expect you to set aside time daily to read Scripture and pray on your own. In the midst of the busy ministry schedule it is easy to neglect your relationship with the Lord.  The ministry you are doing in <this country> is important, but it is also essential for you to develop a closer walk with the Lord during your time here.