[1]BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa (BP)–“I’ve always seen my parents put their faith in God in everything.”
Lars Fracheboud, 22, is intent on doing the same with the French Athletes in Action team by helping lead youth soccer camps in the townships of Bloemfontein, South Africa, one of the host cities for the World Cup.
Fracheboud was born in Oslo, Norway, to Swiss parents who once served in the Congo before returning to Europe, where they have been missionaries in France the past 16 years.
In South Africa, Fracheboud now is making his first trip to the continent where his parent served years ago.
Although some of his friends described South Africa as a dangerous place, Fracheboud’s affinity for ministry to children and youth took priority.
“It’s amazing here; all the kids come and are just enjoying the sessions and training with a smile,” he said. “It’s a great time to personally grow in my faith and pray with the kids.”
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Jacob Alexander is a writer for International Mission Board’s global communication team in South Africa covering competition and ministry at the World Cup games.
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