Letter from the Rectory - July 2026

Dear Friends,

We are in the middle of a World Cup featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. Fans will be hoping that the bigger-than-ever tournament will bring excitement and drama. English fans continue to dream of their team lifting the trophy for the first time since the epic events of Wembley in 1966. Others will be very content if they never hear another mention of ‘Football coming home’.  Whilst we’ll have to wait until 19th July to know the identity of the winners, we do now that there are a growing number of the players from the competing nations who are happy to be known as active Christians and to share their Christian beliefs. 

The outstanding footballer of today, Lionel Messi, is a devout Christian. He attributes his footballing talent directly to God and frequently redirects praise for his achievements to divine providence. He was brought up as a Catholic in Argentina and has said that his abilities are a ‘gift’ and that his path was chosen for him by God.  He has also talked about giving glory to Christ and redirecting any praise back to God. After scoring a goal, he often points both index fingers to the sky - in thanks to God.

Luka Modric from Croatia is playing in his fifth World Cup. He has just played his 199th match for his country against England at the age of 40.  He was brought up in very difficult circumstances, his family being forced to flee their home when he was aged just six following the murder of his beloved grandfather during the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. He is a devout Catholic whose faith in Jesus Christ is central both to his career in football as well as in his personal life. 

Bukayo Saka is a devout Christian who openly attributes his football success and personal resilience to his faith in God.  Raised in a strong Christian home in West London, the Arsenal and England star reads his Bible every night and prays before every match.  He is one of four members of the Arsenal team that has just won the Premier League who are active Christians. After scoring the winner for England in a semi-final in the 2024 Euro’s, he was given the man of the match award. When he was asked how he found the character to overcome the pressures, Saka simply replied: "I have faith in God".  

These men are amongst a growing number of sports personalities known for their Christian conviction as well as their skills on the pitch.

James Campbell