Church books Super Bowl champion

Covenant United Methodist Church of Evans has secured three-time Super Bowl champion William "Bubba" Paris to speak during its Weekend of Champions Saturday and Sunday.

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It was a tale of being in the right place at the right time that opened up the opportunity for the church to bring Paris to the area.

"A couple that is a part of our church ran into him while on vacation and were amazed at his compelling and motivational presence," said the Rev. Randy Monk, pastor of Covenant UMC, which meets at Greenbrier Elementary School. "They thought it would be neat if we could bring him here."

After a number of phone calls, the church was given the green light.

Paris, who played for the San Francisco 49ers, will be the keynote speaker on Saturday night, which will feature Covenant's praise and worship music team.

On Sunday morning, the Rev. Monk and Paris will sit down during the 10 a.m. worship hour to talk about the role of faith and leadership in starting new ministries and faith communities. Covenant UMC is a new church, having begun worship services in February. Boasting a membership of just more than 100, the church is currently looking for land to build a permanent home.

A meet-and-greet will be held prior to the Sunday worship service at 9:30 a.m. Both Saturday's and Sunday's events will be held in the Greenbrier Elementary gymnasium and are open to the public.

"I think it's going to be a good turnout," said Rev. Monk. "I hope that folks, regardless of their affiliation, will show up."

Registration for the Weekend of Champions, however, is required; the deadline is noon Friday. To register, go to www.theumc.org and complete the registration form for the Weekend of Champions.