Jeff Couto, Sports Ministry Pastor

I grew up going to church from a young age, but Christ truly became my Savior in middle school. I have a brother who is two years older than me, and my dad began serving in the youth group when my brother entered 7th grade. I began to notice a significant difference in my dad's life. He was reading God’s Word regularly and faithfully serving the church whenever he could.

Seeing this example inspired me to begin reading God’s Word myself, and I came across Proverbs 3:5-8:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh
and refreshment to your bones.

I remember coming across this passage of Scripture, and it stopped me in my tracks. I wanted to trust in the Lord with all my heart and stop relying on my own understanding.

By God’s grace, He opened my eyes to the beauty of the Gospel and the ugliness of my sin. I now have a deep desire to make the Lord known, and it is an honor and a joy to have a platform within the Sports Ministry to impact the City of Riverside and the surrounding areas.

If there are any other Riverside surfers out there, I would love to find some time to paddle out! I was involved in the Sport of Diving for over 2 decades! 

I pray the Sports Ministry at The Grove is one of the many access points for people to hear the Gospel and enjoy sound, fundamental sports, all while knowing their children are well cared for. I also pray that the ministry equips and trains coaches, referees, and players to grow in their faith while learning the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.

If you’d like to get in contact with me, please call or click below. 951-571-9090 ext. 2145