The 2010 National Special Olympic Games are taking place in Omaha, Nebraska from July 17 to 24.

Daniel Frania, Sheila Kates and Butch Riley are three athletes who all qualified for the national games. To qualify, they first had to perform well at the national and state competitions. Then, their coach Cindy Weitzell nominated them for the national games. The three then were chosen from athletes nominated nationwide.

Both Frania and Kates are first-time competitors this year in their events of basketball and bocce ball, respectively. Riley qualified for softball in the last games, but this year he is playing basketball.

While every athlete hopes to take the gold, these three are following the Shepherds model to be good sports: "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

For them, keeping a good attitude is more important than winning because they are also going to the games to represent Christ.

Weitzell said, "I think we're all praying for opportunities. The biggest thing that is going to be the light in Nebraska will be their life and the way they live it, and the attitudes that they have. I have seen great changes in all of them."

In addition to their attitudes being an example, these three and other Shepherds athletes plan to verbally witness to their competition.

Whether they win or lose, Kates said, "I'm praying that everything will work out for God's glory."

Pray for bravery among these athletes and others as they prepare for the games and share Christ's love. Pray that it will not only be a memorable experience, but also a Christ-honoring one.

Check out Shepherds' Web site to learn more about these and other athletes, as well as updates and more prayer requests.

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.