In the charming town of Thetford, two young and passionate sports ministers, Susie Bratby and Josh Samuel, have been tirelessly working to secure the future of the Sports Factory, a remarkable initiative that aims to bring the community together through sports and share the love of Jesus. Their dedication to this cause is truly inspiring, and their story is a testament to the power of faith and community. Recently, Susie and Josh completed the Cambridge half marathon, an impressive feat that not only showcased their physical endurance but also their commitment to raising funds for the Sports Factory. This incredible initiative, which originated in Norwich, has been a beacon of hope and unity for the community, and Susie and Josh are determined to ensure its continued success.
The Sports Factory was founded by Ruth Anderson, a visionary leader who was inspired to start a new sports ministry through the local church. With a decade of experience in sports ministry, Ruth had a deep understanding of the impact that sports could have on people’s lives, and she was determined to harness this power to bring people closer to God. Her research for Scripture Union in 2014 played a significant role in shaping the mission and vision of the Sports Factory, which has since become a registered charity. The organization’s mission is simple yet profound: to connect the church and the community through sports and to share the love of Jesus. This mission is at the heart of everything that Susie and Josh do, and their work has been a shining example of the positive impact that faith can have on people’s lives.
Susie Bratby, the Sports and Community Minister for Thetford Team Ministry, has been instrumental in establishing the Sports Factory in Thetford. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Susie has worked tirelessly to build relationships with local schools, charities, and community groups. Through her efforts, the Sports Factory has been able to tailor its programs to meet the diverse needs of the community, providing a range of activities that cater to different age groups and abilities. From active RE and lunch clubs for children to social football and fitness classes for adults, the Sports Factory offers something for everyone. Susie’s dedication to her work has been inspiring, and her passion for sharing the love of Jesus has had a profound impact on the community.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Sports Factory is its ability to bring people together and provide a sense of belonging. For Josh Samuel, who joined the adult social football sessions and subsequently committed to following Jesus, the Sports Factory has been a lifeline. Josh’s story is a powerful testament to the impact that the Sports Factory can have on people’s lives, and his journey is a shining example of the organization’s mission in action. As an Associate Sports Minister, Josh has been working closely with Susie to develop the fitness classes and adult social football programs, and his enthusiasm and energy have been a valuable asset to the team. The Sports Factory has been a beacon of hope for many people in the community, and its programs have provided a safe and supportive environment for people to explore their faith and build meaningful relationships.
As the contracts for Susie and Josh come to an end, the Thetford Team Ministry is facing a critical juncture. The organization is looking to raise funds to employ Susie and Josh for a further three years, ensuring the continued success of the Sports Factory. This is a challenging task, but one that is essential to the future of the organization. The Sports Factory has been a game-changer for the community, providing a sense of purpose and belonging for countless individuals. Its programs have been a source of comfort, support, and inspiration, and its impact will be felt for generations to come. As Susie so eloquently puts it, “We rejoice to see people exploring faith, coming to faith, and growing as Christians through this outreach, and we pray for God’s continued work through it.” The Sports Factory is more than just a sports ministry – it is a community, a family, and a testament to the power of faith and love.
The journey ahead will not be easy, but Susie, Josh, and the entire team at the Sports Factory are undaunted. They are driven by a deep passion for their work and a commitment to sharing the love of Jesus with the community. As they look to the future, they are filled with hope and excitement, knowing that the Sports Factory has the potential to touch countless lives and bring people closer to God. To support the work of the Sports Factory, you can visit thetfordteamministry.org.uk/sports-donations or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/SportsFactoryThetford/. You can also learn more about the Sports Factory by visiting sportsfactory.org.uk. By supporting this incredible organization, you will be playing a vital role in shaping the future of the community and helping to bring people closer to God. The Sports Factory is a shining example of the positive impact that faith can have on people’s lives, and its work will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
