Pastor Steve Chromy’s journey with the Averett University football team is a powerful testament to God’s perfect timing. When Pastor Steve moved to Danville in January 2017 to shepherd Mount Hermon Baptist Church, he couldn’t have imagined the path God had prepared for him. Soon after his arrival, he was invited to become the chaplain for Averett University’s football team—a role that allowed him to share the Gospel with the players every Saturday before their games.
For seven years, Pastor Steve faithfully ministered to the team. As his children grew older and his schedule became more demanding, he began to question whether he should step down from the chaplaincy.
“I really struggled because we had not seen any fruit from those seven years,” Pastor Steve shared.
One spring, after prayerful reflection and conversations with his wife, Pastor Steve felt it might be time to step away from the role. But just as he prepared to meet with the coach to share his decision, he received a text that changed everything. The coach informed
him that a group of 20 players, along with their families, planned to attend Mount Hermon the following Sunday.
This unexpected visit was a clear sign from God that Pastor Steve’s work at Averett was far from over. The Sunday service was just the beginning. The coach began attending church regularly and soon gave his life to Christ. As the coach grew in faith, he connected with a man who had been searching for someone to study the Bible with, leading to weekly meetings to delve into God’s Word together.
This season, the coach encouraged the entire football team to attend church after their first scrimmage. That Sunday, Mount Hermon welcomed around 130 players and some of their families to worship and share a meal. One grateful mother approached Pastor Steve after the service, thanking him for the care and spiritual support he had shown her son and the team.
Looking to deepen these relationships, Pastor Steve and the coach have planned a Monday evening Bible study on campus this fall. They will walk through the Book of 1 John to cultivate ongoing discipleship. In a beautiful display of God’s grace, both the coach and one of the players will be baptized on November 17, the first Sunday after the season ends.
“This whole situation has just reminded me that God’s time is not our time,” said Pastor Steve.
Pastor Steve will continue his ministry with the Averett football team, offering pregame chapel services and leading the Monday night Bible study. The coach has even extended an invitation to other sports teams to join. Through these efforts, God is clearly at work, drawing more young men to Himself and strengthening their faith.
“We are praying that God will save souls as we present the Gospel, and we have a real desire to disciple these players to be men of God,” Pastor Steve declared.
As Pastor Steve reflects on this journey, he is reminded that God’s plans often unfold in ways we don’t expect. His timing is always perfect, and when we remain faithful, He will show us the fruit of our labor in His time.
