Church leaders' perceptions of the benefits of utilizing a sports ministry program within the African Methodist Episcopal Churches of Alabama

The purpose of this study was to investigate Church leaders' perceptions of the benefits of utilizing a Sports Ministry Program within the African Methodist Episcopal Churches of Alabama. A survey questionnaire was developed by the researcher to access the perceptions of the benefits of utilizing a sports ministry within the churches. The survey questionnaire utilized a Likert scale design titled "Church Leaders Perceptions of Youth Sports" to assess attitudes of church leaders (N=44) regarding the impact of church sponsored youth sports programs. The survey consisted of demographic questions and perception questions. Outcome measures were assessed by calculating means, standard deviations, percentages, and regression analysis of each research question.;Participants were recruited from 18 counties in the state of Alabama. All 44 surveys were completed resulting in a participation rate of 100%. Participants consisted of 37 males and 7 females. Results showed that "utilizing a sports ministry program would impact the growth and economic impact of the church". Over 85% of all respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that a sports ministry would have a positive impact on growth and economics.;The results of the survey show the participants are supportive of a Sport Ministry Program as a general strategy for a stimulant of evangelism and outreach, a tool for discipleship, a means of fellowship, a source of growth and economic support, an avenue for servant-hood, a training strategy for future leaders, and a conduit for God's calling within the African Methodist Episcopal Churches of Alabama.