There is no doubt that gun ownership is very controversial these days. The anniversary of the Newtown massacre and continued gun violence across the country have led to calls for tighter regulation of firearms, such as the recent legislation passed in Sunnyvale. Others counter that their Second Amendment Constitutional rights not be tampered with.
Gilroy’s Foothills Church (8335 Church St.) has a unique ministry that contrasts with the perception of gun-owners as dangerous people. Hunters For Christ is a group that provides “fellowship for men, women and children in the outdoors through the enjoyment of shooting sports and hunting.”
It was founded in 1993 by Gian Rossini, a businessman who grew up with guns and hunting. When he shared his enthusiasm with some other members of the congregation, they decided to establish a formal ministry to share fellowship and attract others to the church who share this interest.
About five years ago Kevin Ratliff, the church’s youth pastor, became part of the ministry’s leadership; his wife and young son also enjoy activities sponsored by Hunters for Christ.
Some people may question why a minister would participate in such violence, but Pastor Kevin has a ready response.
In Genesis, God told Noah that the beasts of the earth, the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea were given to humans. “Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you.”
“Hunting with a purpose to provide for our loved ones is something God would do for himself,” Kevin said.
Hunters for Christ is affiliated with several conservation organizations, and it has a volunteer staff of professional members who provide expertise in such areas as dog training, hunting safety, ballistics, waterfowl and NRA certification.
The group holds six or seven big events every year. So far these have been scheduled for 2014:
• A three-day hunters safety course in January
• A quail hunt at Quail Point Preserve in Zamora (Yolo County) in March
• A Couples Shoot in April
• A Father’s Day Shoot in June at the Coyote Valley Sporting Clays.
Father’s Day is the best-attended event with as many as 100 participants. The whole family can enjoy a barbecue, and BB guns are provided so younger children can to begin learning to shoot properly. This is part of their emphasis on encouraging people to get outside and enjoy healthy exercise.
The group’s website, www.huntersforchrist.org, has helpful resources like recipes for cooking wild game, for example Bear Chili, Venison Sloppy Joe and Wild Bear Stew. There is also an area that offers hunting items for sale.
Admission is charged for participation in most events, but any money collected that exceeds expenses goes to support other ministries of The Foothills Church.
It is not necessary to be a member of the congregation to participate. Anyone who enjoys responsible use of firearms, hunting or archery is welcome to attend. Residents are invited to share their passion for the Lord in this fun and safe environment by calling (408) 310-8152. Rossini is also enthusiastic about helping other churches in establishing a similar ministry for their congregations.
