How Table Tennis Became a Ministry of Community, Discipleship, and Joy
One Point at a Time:
How Table Tennis Became a Ministry of Community, Discipleship, and Joy
When our church applied for the Creative Ministries Grant, we had spent time praying and reflecting on our creative idea.
Our vision was simple: to build stronger community ties, reach the unreached, and disciple both this generation and the next. After several conversations, our idea kept resurfacing, something surprisingly joyful and deeply nostalgic… table tennis.
Many members fondly recalled how, in their younger days, table tennis was a regular and beloved activity at church. It was more than a game; it was an avenue for connection, laughter, and lasting memories. So, we asked ourselves: why not bring it back?
Thanks to the grant, we purchased a table tennis table and placed in the church hall. The table now serves as a neutral meeting point where children, teenagers, adults, and seniors all taking turns with paddles in hand and laughter in the air. There is no pressure just play, presence, and plenty of fun.
Over time, we've shared some truly special moments. One of the most beautiful developments has been the informal mentorship that has emerged. Older members have taken younger players under their wing not just to teach them better techniques, but to model patience, encouragement, and even share their faith journeys. These connections have deepened the sense of community and provided spiritual guidance in unexpected ways.
We’ve also been reminded that even the most competitive among us can let loose and enjoy the thrill of a good rally including the pastor, his wife and our local preacher! It’s been heartwarming to see friendly rivalries bloom, all while serving up points and building trust.
In the New Testament, Jesus spent much of His ministry not in temples or grand settings, but around meals, walking along roads, and simply being with people. His ministry was relational, often informal, and always intentional. In that same spirit, our table tennis ministry has created space for meaningful conversations and moments of spiritual insight, serving God one point at a time.
In today’s world, marked by increasing isolation, anxiety, and screen-driven distractions, our simple ping-pong table has become a place of presence, purpose, and peace. A good rally in table tennis requires attentiveness and rhythm. You can’t win every shot, and you can't play alone. You have to listen, respond, and adapt. In many ways, our walk with God is like that—it's not about dominance, but about relationship, trust, and learning to respond to life’s concerns with grace.
Beyond the spiritual and social blessings, there are also physical benefits. For many in our congregation, the game offers a fun and light form of exercise, it’s a way to unplug from devices and engage in face-to-face interaction, laughter, and genuine connection.
We are so grateful to have received this grant-funded opportunity. What began as a simple idea has blossomed into a meaningful ministry—bringing people together, sparking gospel conversations, and gently opening hearts to Jesus. We believe God delights in our joy and uses even the smallest things to accomplish His greater purposes.
As we move forward, we continue to pray that our church remains a place where play leads to purpose, and fun leads to faith. The ping-pong table may seem small, but the impact it’s making is big. And if you haven’t yet picked up a paddle, we encourage you to come give it a try. You just might be surprised at how God can move—even through a game of ping-pong.
Sarah Baker
Adare, Ballingrane and Christ Church Circuit, Limerick
The Methodist Church in Ireland is committed to the ongoing learning and development of its lay people and to the ministries they are involved in. To further enable this, creative ministries grants were made available to lay people within the Methodist Church in Ireland, whether voluntary or employed, for exploring, starting or maintaining creative ministries within their local church/context.