Brazilian footballer Roberto Firmino has taken on a new role as an evangelical pastor, three years after co-founding the Manah Church in his hometown of Maceio with his wife, Larissa Pereira, and pastors Jairo Fernandes and Keila Medeiros.
Firmino shared the news on Instagram, posting photos of the ordination ceremony. “What a memorable and unforgettable night,” he wrote. “This church was BORN in the heart of God and we are extremely grateful for the privilege of witnessing up close all that the Lord has done.”
Roberto Firmino has become a pastor of an Evangelical Church that he founded in Maceio, Brazil.#Blinkscoop
Trends: Manchester United|Spain|Nico Williams|Roberto Firmino pic.twitter.com/flGw5naoII— Blinkscoop Official (@Blinkscoop1) July 9, 2024
Reflecting on his spiritual journey, Firmino added, “Since our encounter with Christ, a longing burns in our hearts to share this love. Now we have the responsibility to be pastors after God’s heart and to cooperate with the Kingdom. We are amazed at God’s mercy upon us. He really picks the unlikely! Thank You, Jesus. Thank you, Pr Jairo and Pr Keila, for pushing us and believing in us.”
Firmino, who spent eight successful years at Liverpool, winning trophies like the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli last year. Despite his new pastoral duties, the 32-year-old remains active in football and has two years left on his contract with Al-Ahli.
In a similar vein, former Ghana captain John Mensah has dedicated much of his post-football life to serving God. Speaking at the 2024 Ghana Football Awards, Mensah shared that he spends most of his time at the Resurrection Power New Generation Church. “I’m just keeping myself in the church all the time. Since I’m no longer on the field, that’s how I’m keeping myself cool,” he said, as quoted by Joy Sports. “I keep my faith in God Almighty to worship Him well, advise my people, and do evangelism to help others know God very well.”
Mensah was a key player in Ghana’s golden generation, helping the team qualify for the World Cup in 2006 and 2010.