May 2016 Newsletter

Race Track Chaplaincy of America

May 2016

May 2016

A Message From the Executive Director

Dear RTCA Friends and Family,


	Dan Waits Executive Director

I cannot express to you how much I have enjoyed my first month on the job! Your graciousness and kindness have been amazing, and my family and I could not feel any more welcome. It's been a busy time, but it's a "good busy". There's a learning curve with any new position, but everyone has been incredibly helpful and supportive.

There are so many GREAT things I am learning about RTCA. It's been great to see the "hands and feet of Christ" ministry that occurs between the Chaplain and race track workers every day. It's been great to meet so many Christ-centered partners that want to support RTCA simply because they want to spread the love of Christ throughout the horse racing industry. It's been great to come beside a staff that's focused on supporting the work of Chaplains and Councils throughout the RTCA network. It's been great to learn the value of Chaplains supporting and encouraging each other as they do the same essential work together.

Yet, the comment that echoes during this introductory period is, "We don't know what we would do without the work of the Chaplains here at the track". Whether it's the follow-up with an injured jockey, or a Bible study for those exploring the faith, or a fellowship meal with a new incoming group, or a one-on-one session with a troubled soul, or the anchor of a worship service... you are making a difference! So be encouraged Chaplains and Councils! The Christ-centered work that God has called you to do is making a difference in people's lives... not just for this generation but for generations to come! And we stand ready to help you accomplish this purpose.

I look forward to meeting everyone. Until then, please know that I am keeping the RTCA family in continuous prayer. If I or anyone on the RTCA staff can help in anyway whatsoever, we stand ready to do so.

In Christ,

Dan

What We've Been up To...

Golf

In Memoriam

National Conference

Prayer List

Spotlight

More...

At our National Service Center in Lexington, Kentucky, my staff and I work to provide:

professional development, including a yearly National Conference
benevolence funding to Chaplains and Councils who are in distress
ministry resources and new ministry start-up assistance
council accounts for ministry programs
professional consultation and industry collaboration
and much more!

Our goal is to strengthen our Chaplaincy network, much like the Apostle Paul did on his three mission trips around Asia Minor some 2000 years ago. We cannot do this without your help, prayerfully and financially. Thank you for your support in the dollars you contribute and the prayers you pray for Race Track Chaplaincy of America. God Bless!

2016 RTCA Golf Tournament

Save the Date!

2016 RTCA Golf Tournament

Get ready to play with a purpose! The 2016 RTCA Golf Tournament, the first of our two major yearly fundraisers, has been scheduled for Thursday, July 21.

We will be playing at the University Club of Kentucky. Registration is at 12 PM, with a shotgun start at 1 PM.

We hope you will join us for an enjoyable and relaxing day of golf and fellowship with other men and women of faith coming together to proclaim the saving grace of the Lord Jesus.

The following Sponsorship opportunities exist: hole sponsors, patron, bronze, silver and gold. To receive more information visit our website, send us an e-mail at [email protected] or just give us a call at (859) 410-7822.

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Spotlight: International Affairs

Chaplains from Abroad

During our 2016 National Conference, Race Track Chaplaincy of America was blessed to host two visiting International Chaplains.

Chaplain Fabian Crespo and his wife Romina joined us from Argentina. They came to the United States for the National Conference, and stayed to spend the summer in New Mexico ministering alongside Chaplain Darrell Winter at Ruidoso Downs.

Chaplain Andrew McKerrow from Christchurch, New Zealand spent three weeks in the United States, visiting 4 different Chaplaincies as well as the RTCA National Service Center. His first trip here brought many firsts, including his first trip to Wal-Mart and his first time seeing a squirrel. Since returning home, Andrew has begun the process of becoming an RTCA Affiliated Chaplain.

Reflections of a "Flying Kiwi"

Chaplain Andrew McKerrow

Once in a while, opportunities come along that are both life changing and life defining. My recent trip from New Zealand to spend time with the RTCA was definitely one of those opportunities. Read More

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2016 National Conference

Hot Springs, AR

Our annual National Conference (formerly Chaplain School & Annual Business Meeting) was a wonderful time of fellowship and renewal! Our chaplains and leaders from across the country came together in Hot Springs, AR for a weekend of worship and faith-based workshops, leading up to our Annual Business Meeting and culminating with our Annual Banquet.

Our 2017 National Conference will be held at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY. More details coming soon!

Chaplain School

24 Chaplainsfrom 3 different countries met together in Hot Springs, AR. from March30 - April 3. They had daily morning and evening devotions and 2 full days of Bible-based instruction with Dr. Scott Floyd from B.H. Carroll Theological Institute.