OREGON FOOTBALL CHAPLAINCY PROGRAM
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,
as working for the Lord, not for men
ABOUT OFCP
The Oregon Football Chaplaincy Program exists to give student-athletes the opportunity to hear the Gospel, grow in their faith, and discover God’s purpose for their lives. The pressures and expectations placed upon them by competition, coaches, fans, social media, and even themselves can often feel overwhelming. Through prayer, encouragement, crisis response, personal counseling, chapel services, and Bible studies, the Chaplaincy Program provides consistent spiritual care and guidance.
Our mission is to lead student-athletes toward the hope, freedom, and purpose found in Jesus Christ and to equip them through His grace and truth. Our desire is to help develop strong, godly leaders who demonstrate Christlike character and are prepared to make a lasting impact on their families, communities, and the world.
Three stages of the Program:
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Understanding the Gospel and Bible Basics
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Sharing the Gospel and Personal Testimony
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Spiritual Leadership Development
About The Chaplain
A former Oregon Football punter and 12-year NFL veteran—including time with the Green Bay Packers (1999–2003), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2004–2009), and Washington (2010)—Josh Bidwell knows football and has a deep love for the University of Oregon.
Josh has been part of the Oregon Football community for nearly 30 years, dedicating his time to ministering to and mentoring players, coaches, and staff. In 2011, the University of Oregon Football coaching staff invited him to serve as the program’s full-time volunteer chaplain, a calling he has faithfully pursued ever since.
Josh’s mission is to give student-athletes and coaches every opportunity to know Jesus Christ, grow in His grace and truth, and become faithful, godly leaders who passionately seek and follow God’s will for their lives.
HOPE AND PURPOSE
JEREMIAH 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
BUILDING HOPE
These young men come into this program with many hopes and dreams! However, most come to the quick realization that these dreams are more difficult to attain then they had thought. Worldly hope is a wishful thought that carries great uncertainty but BIBLICAL HOPE is "The ABSOLUTE ASSURANCE of coming good!" My goal is to establish and build BIBLICAL HOPE in the hearts of these young men!
Hebrews 11:1
"Now faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see."
BUILDING PURPOSE
Mark Twain once said, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."
Once these young men see God has a purpose for them, it is my desire to help them build their connection and passion to accomplish God's will in their lives!
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
MAKING DISCIPLES
When the time comes for a young man to move on to the next chapter of their lives whether it be to a professional football career or into the working world, it is my desire that they be fully equipped to lead others to Christ and disciple others in Christ.
Matthew 28:19
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a]the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
