Churches of Christ Highlight Faith and Fitness Through Community Mentorship and Youth Programs

Ed Modicue, a member of the Forsythe Church of Christ in Monroe, La., mentors youths in physical, mental and spiritual discipline at his gym in northeast Louisiana. Modicue, who won five Golden Glove titles in the 1970s, now trains boys in boxing with a focus on life skills such as self-control, preparation and healthy eating. He also emphasizes faith, with a poster in his gym encouraging trainees to “put on the full armor of God,” from Ephesians 6. Modicue recently taught a boys’ class at the Forsythe church about fitness and faith, according to preaching minister John Dobbs. “Ed is a genuine spirit who has a heart for the kids who need a godly influence in their lives,” Dobbs said. “I call him ‘Champ’ because he is a champion in life and faith. Ed and his wife, Sheila, are bright lights of encouragement.”

Several individuals were recently baptized in Churches of Christ across the U.S. Cindy and Abraham Andres, Keira Cruse, Skylar Basinger, Jamie and Heather Duncan, Scott Jones, Justin Flynn, Theoplis RevoY Hale, Jada Ivy, Kalani Joyner, Armando and Irma Mora, Allan Munden and Alexandra Stringfellow, Todd Napper, Alec Radoshevich, Bobby Rains and Hailey Melton, Erica Ramirez, Elaina Rennicker, and Parker Southerland were among those baptized in their respective congregations.

The stories highlight the diverse ways Churches of Christ engage with their communities, from fitness and faith mentorship to spiritual growth and baptism. These efforts reflect the group’s commitment to holistic development and spiritual guidance.

The focus on youth development and spiritual education underscores the role of Churches of Christ in providing support and direction to individuals seeking to live according to their beliefs. Through programs like Modicue’s gym and baptismal ceremonies, congregations demonstrate their dedication to nurturing both the body and the spirit.

Such initiatives align with the broader mission of Churches of Christ to serve their communities through faith-based education, mentorship, and outreach. These efforts are part of a larger commitment to fostering character, discipline, and spiritual growth among members and the wider community.

The emphasis on fitness and faith in Modicue’s work mirrors the biblical call to care for the body as a temple, a theme found in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. This connection highlights the integration of physical and spiritual health in the lives of those involved.

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