World Cup 2026 | NWbaptist

World Cup 2026 - Mobilizing the Northwest

The world is coming to our backyard. In 2026, the FIFA World Cup will bring thousands of people from every nation to the Pacific Northwest. This isn't just a sporting event; it is a massive, God-given window for evangelism. The Northwest Baptist Convention is committed to helping your church move from the sidelines into the game.

Two Ways Your Church Can Engage

Opportunity

Federal Way In-Person Outreach

Focus
High-traffic, carnival-style engagement with a massive volunteer presence.

Action
Join the team in Seattle/Federal Way.

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2

Opportunity

Local Watch Parties

Focus

Neighborhood or church-based gatherings using the game as a bridge.

Action

Host an event at your campus or home.

1. Federal Way Watch Party: In-Person Opportunity

Join Zac Minton and a team of 150 volunteers for a major outreach event at the Federal Way Performing Arts Center (PAC). The city has asked us to lead the volunteer support station, giving us a unique position of influence and service.

When: June 19-21, 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Federal Way Performing Arts Center
The Setup: The PAC theater will broadcast live games while the surrounding lots feature carnival entertainment, 100+ vendors, and live music.
Our Presence: We will operate four booths:

The Prayer Booth: Our primary hub for Gospel conversations and intercession.
Engagement Tables (2): Featuring games, prizes, and raffles to draw people toward the prayer booth.
Volunteer Support Station: Providing meals, snacks, and care packages for all 150 event volunteers.

2. Host a Local Watch Party

You don't have to be in Seattle to reach the nations. Use the global excitement of the tournament to open your church doors or your front porch to neighbors. We provide a full guide to help you transition from a "fan" to a "missionary" during the match.

Here is a guide on how to host a watch party: What is the World Cup

The Yellow Card Initiative

The primary tool for these events is the Yellow Card Initiative. Just as a yellow card in soccer is a warning and a call to change direction, it serves as a natural, non-threatening analogy for our need for a Savior. It’s a simple bridge to share the hope of the Gospel in the middle of a match.

Want World Cup Gospel Swag? We have it covered! https://www.namb.net/world-cup-2026-evangelism-engagement/

Missional Takeaway

The Great Commission commands us to go to the nations, but in 2026, the nations are coming to us. Whether you are serving snacks to a volunteer in Federal Way or flipping burgers for a neighbor during a shootout, you are declaring His glory among the peoples. Let's not miss this window to show the Northwest that the Gospel is the greatest news on earth.

"Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!" - 1 Chronicles 16:24

Statewide Washington Fan Zones

Official "SeattleFWC26" community celebrations are hosted in nine cities from June 11 through July 19:

Spokane: Gesa Pavilion at Riverfront Park, featuring a 21-foot screen (highlighting USA vs Australia on June 19).
Bellingham: Waterfront and downtown block parties centered around Kulshan Brewing and Commercial Street.
Bremerton: Quincy Square, just a ferry ride from Seattle, featuring a giant LED screen and beer gardens.
Everett: Boxcar Park at the Port of Everett, offering waterfront viewing and family activities.
Tacoma: The Puyallup Tribal Headquarters, focusing on cultural exchange and community unity.
Tri-Cities: The Pasco Sporting Complex, serving as the regional hub for Southeast Washington.
Vancouver: Big Al's and downtown waterfront areas for fans in the Southwest region.
Olympia/Lacey: NorthPoint at the Port of Olympia, featuring family-friendly community events.
Yakima: The Sozo Sports Complex, emphasizing health, sports, and cultural celebration.

Oregon Regional Hubs

Pioneer Courthouse Square (Portland): Known as "Portland's Living Room," hosting the "Soccer Celebration" from June 12–15 with live viewings and local food carts.
Gol PDX (Portland): A dedicated soccer venue on Hawthorne Blvd showing every match live with both indoor and outdoor seating.