Church uses wrestling to draw in new congregants amid declining attendance
- Kingdom Wrestling is a Christian professional wrestling charity that combines wrestling with prayer and worship.
- The charity has grown significantly, hosting numerous shows and baptizing more than 30 individuals.
- The initiative aims to attract new congregants and demonstrate that the church is a living entity.
In recent months, a church in England has embraced a unique approach to attract more visitors by hosting WWE-style wrestling shows. St Peter's Church in Shipley, under the guidance of Reverend Natasha Thomas, began working with Kingdom Wrestling, a Christian professional wrestling charity founded by Gareth Thompson. This innovative initiative aims to blend entertainment with spirituality, offering a new way for people to engage with the church while enjoying the thrill of wrestling. The events serve as a platform for prayer, worship, and storytelling, reflecting the belief that one can wrestle with life’s challenges and faith simultaneously. Kingdom Wrestling has witnessed significant growth since its inception, building a loyal fanbase and even baptizing more than 30 people. The charity’s outreach extends beyond wrestling, as it also supports local schools and runs various community programs, including self-defense classes for women and mental health initiatives for men. By hosting these events, the church not only showcases its commitment to being a dynamic community hub but also reaches individuals who may not typically attend traditional services. Reverend Thomas expressed her hope that this approach would help draw in new congregants and reinvigorate the church’s presence in the area. Furthermore, performers like 'Posh Princess' Kiara have found personal reconciliation with their faith through their involvement in the wrestling shows, illustrating that the connection between professional wrestling and Christian values can resonate with a broader audience. This blend of faith and entertainment showcases a modern interpretation of church outreach, demonstrating that there are various pathways to spiritual engagement in today’s society. As attendance at religious services continues to decline across denominations, innovative strategies such as Kingdom Wrestling may play a vital role in revitalizing church participation while addressing the needs of the community.