The Call…

For those that know and follow me, you know I’ve been away a while. I’ve not been idle during this time; in fact, I’ve been on a significant personal and spiritual journey. Recently, God has placed a bit of a call on me to move from simply being a game group lead and consulting gamer to embracing the role of a ministry partner. This shift is both exciting and terrifying. I’ve been praying earnestly on this matter, seeking clarity and direction, but I’m still unsure of the path ahead. All I’ve received so far are two profound words: “Feed them.” Naturally, one has to ask oneself, who is “them”? Who are the individuals or community that I am being called to serve? Deep down, I know there is a connection, a deeper understanding that awaits me. As I reflect on this calling, I realize that it may not just be about physical nourishment but also about providing guidance, support, and encouragement to others in their spiritual journeys. Each day brings new reflections and revelations, fueling my desire to step into this role and discover what it truly means to “feed” those who are in need.

The question is “How”. I can easily host a large game group gathering, and I’d rather that not change; maintaining this aspect of community is important to me and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. I also want to ensure I don’t alienate the current base I attract, as their support has been crucial to the success of our events. However, I’m just unclear on how to connect those gatherings to this mission of giving back to the community. One idea I had is organizing a canned food drive to benefit the local food bank, which would not only serve a charitable purpose but also enrich the overall experience for the attendees. It’s easy enough to implement, and I could simply ask all potential attendees to bring a non-perishable or shelf-stable food item with them, which would create a sense of shared contribution. Alternatively, a cash donation would work just as easily, allowing participants to contribute in a way that suits them best. By doing this, we can create a fun environment while also fostering a spirit of generosity, reminding everyone that our fun gatherings can have a meaningful impact on those in need.

Some other ideas include:

1. The Marathon Sponsorship (The “Extra Life” Model)

This is one of the most successful formats for gaming charity.

• How it works: We’d host a 12-hour or 24-hour board game marathon. Participants ask friends, family, and coworkers to sponsor them—either a flat donation or a pledge per hour played.
• The Vibe: It turns a long day of playing heavy, brain-burning Eurogames or running a massive RPG campaign into an act of endurance for a good cause.

2. The Curated Game Night

Instead of just setting up tables, you provide a premium, hosted experience.

• How it works: Partner with a local church, community center, or cafe. We’d sell tickets to a game night where I’d act as the official “Consulting Gamer.” We could curate a game selection, teach the rules, and guide the evening. Others would be welcome to BTOG and teach as well.
• The Vibe: All ticket proceeds go directly to a partnered ministry. It removes the barrier to entry for new gamers because they don’t have to read a single rulebook—I’d handle the heavy lifting.

3. Print-and-Play (PNP) and Design Drives

Since I am deeply embedded in the mechanics of tabletop games, I can leverage the creation side of the hobby.

• How it works: I (or a community of designers I gather) create custom Print-and-Play games, solo RPG modules, or expansions for existing open-source games. We’d sell them online (via a platform like itch.io or this site… or both), with 100% of the proceeds funding various organizations.
• The Vibe: Gamers love exclusive content. Offering a brand-new solo adventure or a clever roll-and-write game is a great way to raise money globally, not just locally.

4. The “Library Lock-In” or Tournament

Tap into the competitive or completionist side of the tabletop community.

• How it works: Host a tournament for a popular, accessible game (like Catan, Ticket to Ride, or Carcassonne) with an entry fee. Alternatively, we’d host a “Shelf of Shame” event where people pay an entry fee to finally learn and play the games they bought but never opened.
• The Vibe: High energy, community-focused, and easily repeatable on an annual or quarterly basis.

Long and all, I don’t feel like this shift would be welcome by everyone, as there are bound to be mixed feelings among my friends and family about my decision. I’m prepared to lose friends if I need to, but I also don’t feel like that’s a major concern for me at this stage in my life. I understand that some might not agree with my choices, and while it is always difficult to navigate these dynamics, I have to prioritize the call He’s placed on my life. He’s given me a lot of peace on this potential move, reassuring me that it’s okay to pursue Him and that true friends will understand my journey, even if it means taking a step back from certain relationships. The possibilities ahead excite me, and I am ready to embrace the uncertainty that comes with change.