Vanderbilt Athletes Gather for Worship Night — “Come As You Are”

Read Aloud

A Night of Faith and Fellowship Under the Lights

On a cool October evening in Nashville, the Alumni Lawn at Vanderbilt University transformed into a field of worship rather than competition. Athletes, coaches, and students gathered for a special event called “Come As You Are”, a campus-wide worship night organized by student-athletes who wanted to share how their faith fuels them both in sport and in life.

What began as a simple idea from a few members of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes quickly became a movement across the campus. Hundreds filled the lawn — some teammates, some strangers — all lifting their voices in praise. The sound of worship echoed between the historic buildings, reminding everyone that faith isn’t confined to Sunday mornings or locker rooms.

Athletes Leading by Example

Several Vanderbilt athletes took the stage to share testimonies about how God has worked through their athletic journeys. From football players discussing injury and perseverance, to women’s soccer and track athletes speaking about pressure and purpose, each story pointed to the same truth — their identity is in Christ, not in performance.

One student said, “When you step on the field, you want to win. But the biggest win is knowing who you are in Him — win or lose.”

Moments like this show that faith and sports are deeply intertwined, not just through competition, but through community, humility, and gratitude.

Faith Beyond the Scoreboard

Vanderbilt’s event echoed a growing trend across college campuses — athletes turning their platforms into ministries. “Come As You Are” wasn’t about denominational lines or public recognition; it was about unity and authenticity. Worship teams from multiple campus ministries joined together, creating an atmosphere of inclusion and joy.

As lights dimmed and hands raised, students prayed not only for their teams but for the courage to live boldly in their faith.

A Message That Transcends Sports

The message of the night was simple yet powerful: you don’t have to be perfect to be loved by God.

Whether you’re a Division I athlete, a coach, or a freshman trying to find your place — faith levels the field.

“Come As You Are” served as a reminder that while trophies fade, the impact of faith lasts forever.