USA (MNN) — Becky Henline will be accepting the Special Olympics 2009 Female Athlete of the Year award for the South East area of Wisconsin.
Henline is a Christian participating with Shepherd's Ministries, a Christian organization devoted to helping people with disabilities reach their full potential–especially in their relationship with Christ. Shepherd's commitment to empower the developmentally disabled gives them the opportunity to share God's love and His message.
During the Special Olympics, Shepherd's Ministry participants wear t-shirts with Bible verses on them. While these seem a subtle message, they have had people ask about them,
explained Cindy Weitzell with Shepherds. "Our athletes are able to witness at that point in time," she said.
However, it is the overall attitude of their athletes that stands out the most. "When Becky was at World Games, even at State Games, they said something
about her attitude just being so perfect that they would love to have her go anywhere. I think that attitude speaks a lot as far as her testimony for the Lord," said Weitzell.
Weitzell nominated Henline for the award because she always puts forth her best effort while also encouraging others to do the same. Henline is not the first member of the Shepherd's Ministries team to win an award. Seven others have received awards in several different categories in the past.
Weitzell is in the process of nominating other groups in their ministry for awards. Pray that their presence in this well-known event will be a shining light to those they meet. Pray that they will boldly share their faith and the source of their motivation to live the way they do.
Henline will accept her award at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI on July 19.
