Major Keith Pike shares a message about the armour of God using hockey equipment

Another successful season of hockey was celebrated at Rideau Heights Community Church, Kingston, Ont., at the corps' annual Hockey Sunday in March. Players, family members, coaches and officials from the five teams that make up Salvation Army Hockey in the Kingston Church Athletic League were in attendance.

This past season, 80 players aged seven to 17 proudly wore the Army's red shield on their jersey. Many players, coaches, officials and parents also participated in off-ice activities in support of the Army, including a food drive, toy drive and the Christmas kettle campaign.

Major Keith Pike, territorial youth secretary, spoke at the Hockey Sunday event. He asked a young player to come on the platform and used hockey gear to illustrate the armour of God.

A luncheon was held after the service, followed by a time of recognition for players, coaches and team officials that celebrated the accomplishments of Army hockey teams during the past season. The emphasis, however, was not on trophies or individual accomplishments, but on teamwork, sportsmanship, respect and representing the Army in a positive way in the community. Several examples were shared of coaches and parents from other teams, as well as referees, complimenting Army hockey players and coaches for demonstrating those qualities.