Isn’t it great to be Number One? First Place. Winner. Champion. Victory is that amazing feeling you get in the classroom when you ace a test, or when a teacher sees the lightbulb go off for a struggling student. Hitting a homerun and making the game-winning shot all bring joyous excitement. What about breaking the winter weather records two years in a row? Wait, what? Doesn’t Montana know that breaking snowfall records isn’t the kind of winning we were looking for again this year?! Brrrrrr.

Students rally to encourage teachers

Despite the many cold and snowy days that fill Montana winters, some local students made sure February started off warm inside Belgrade High School. It was the Friday before the Super Bowl and everyone was excited! The athletes involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Huddle took on a mission bigger than the cold weather and the big game: to warm the hearts and stomachs of their amazing teachers and staff.

Members from the Gallatin Valley FCA Huddle and community volunteers from local churches decided to host a “Souper Bowl” luncheon for the faculty. They brought in 10 different soups and more desserts than anyone could count. Tables were decorated with encouraging notes of gratitude. The Huddle took the time to thank them for their tireless service to the students and community. It was a simple way for FCA to encourage the staff and share its gratitude for pouring into the next generation.

Teachers share their FCA experiences

As student-athletes and leaders shared the heart of FCA during the luncheon, many teachers told personal stories from when they were involved with FCA in high school. It was powerful to hear how FCA had strengthened their faith and see that several years later, those former athletes were still being led into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ through the encouragement of FCA—as school staff! Just as a teacher’s influence on the next generation goes far beyond the classroom, so does the impact of FCA.