“Kicking It: Kung-Fu For Christ Encourages Discipline and Discipleship” was written by Kristin Ostensen and published by Salvationist on July 21, 2014. The article provides an early look at the growth of Kung-Fu For Christ and its unique approach to combining martial arts, Christian faith, family involvement and community outreach.
At the time of publication, Kung-Fu For Christ operated through The Salvation Army’s Kitchener Community Church in Ontario. The outreach ministry used martial arts as a way to connect with members of the community, including individuals and families who may not otherwise have been familiar with the church or Christian faith.
Each hour-long martial arts class incorporated a devotional component in which students explored Scripture or a biblical value and considered how those teachings could be applied both to their martial arts training and everyday lives. The program connected traditional martial arts principles—including respect, discipline, self-control and perseverance—with Christian teachings and values.
The article highlights the significant community response the program had already received. More than 70 children and 30 adults were participating at the time, with the children’s program becoming popular enough to periodically require a waiting list.
Accessibility was also an important part of the program. Rather than charging conventional martial arts tuition, classes were offered free of charge with participants given the option to make a donation. This approach helped make martial arts training available to families who might otherwise face financial barriers to participating.
The story shares the experience of one mother who joined the program alongside her children. She described how participating together not only helped improve their physical health but also strengthened their relationships with one another and their connection to faith. Training became something the family could practise and experience together.
Kung-Fu For Christ also encouraged students to grow outside of martial arts. Students could earn recognition for achievements such as reading the Bible and academic accomplishments, creating additional opportunities to encourage learning, personal development and positive habits.
The article also demonstrates the important role of volunteers and community support in the program’s early success. A team of approximately 15 instructors helped lead classes, while other members of the church community assisted with registration, refreshments, childcare and welcoming participants. This created opportunities to build relationships with families and provide encouragement, conversation and prayer.
Ultimately, the article captures an important chapter in the early history of Kung-Fu For Christ. What began as a martial arts outreach program was already developing into a community where physical activity, discipline, discipleship, family connection and Christian faith could grow together.
More than a decade later, the article provides a valuable glimpse into the foundations of Kung-Fu For Christ and the principles of strong bodies, strong character, strong relationships and strong faith that continue to shape its work in the community.
