Making peacemakers instead of fighters

By Matthew Carlisle
Hoosier UM News Staff Writer

It's not often that you find a pastor who feels as comfortable in a black belt as he is in his stole. The Rev. Scott Moss of Fort Wayne UMC, who holds a black belt in tae kwon do, started teaching the martial art to at-risk youth in the basement of his church two years ago. What makes this different from other tae kwon do classes is that Moss uses the martial art as a way of introducing students to the teachings of Christianity.

Designed to affect a student emotionally, spiritually and physically, the program is creating "peacemakers instead of fighters," according to Moss.

Typically, Moss' class will be a student's first exposure to the church setting. Unaffiliated with any religious organization, tae kwon do teaches students five tenants: to show courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and an indomitable spirit." While each session begins and ends in prayer, Pastor Moss will present Bible lessons throughout.

The regiment of the program isn't easy; the student must be dedicated. Before taking the ability test (earning a belt), students, based on age, are required to pass a written test on a Bible passage. Memorization of Bible verses is required as well. Moss insists that each student attend church on a regular basis. He asks that students have their pastor sign a letter of attendance. And most important, there is a no-fighting rule.

Through word-of-mouth, the program has grown from 15 its first week to an average of 40 students per week. Due to the growth, classes are now held three times a week. With a busy church schedule, Moss can't be at every session. When he's unable to attend, the highest-ranking student will lead.

Most recently, the highest-ranking student has been Joshua. An example of the power of Moss' program, Joshua first joined the class at 16. Rev. Moss has seen a definite change in Joshua who was formerly a D and F student. Now 18, he is a high school senior and plans to attend college next year. Joshua's long-range goal is to become a pastor.

According to Moss, "I've seen changes in grades and attitudes toward parents." When Moss reaches a student, many times the effects will spread to the student's family. Overtime, their self-esteem grows, grades go up and disagreements with others end. One family believed so much in the program, they cancelled a move.

In June, Pastor Moss will leave Fort Wayne Christ UMC, for a new position at Garrett UMC, just 15 miles away. Moss is already setting the groundwork for a new program. "The members of Garrett have been receptive to the idea," says Moss. A testament to the power of tae kwon do as a tool of ministry, Moss will continue to instruct at both churches. He is reaching for a long-range goal. "I would love to see clubs throughout the conference, and beyond. A nationwide support network for kids, reaching kids that normally wouldn't go to a kid's club."

If you would like to participate or are a WTF certified black belt, contact Scott Moss at smoss1@prodigy.net.

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