Spring 2025 Newsletter
The Life of a Gardener
Executive Director Eddie Baugher
An Out-of-Season Moment
Chaplain Michael Norris
Caring Community
Chaplain Desirée Flath
Donor Spotlight
John and Roni Richardson
Women's Retreat
Chaplain Kelly Baugher
Off-Track Divine Appointment
Chaplain Rob Brown
The Life of a Gardener
Eddie Baugher
A new race season is here, along with a new season of ministry. As the buds on the trees begin to leaf and the blossoms of the flowers begin to bloom, I’m reminded of the beauty that comes after a long, hard winter – a time when, although things may have seemed dead, they’ve merely been at rest. With the warmth of spring, we see those dormant plants and seeds start to come alive.
Like the plants and trees that experience a revival of life come spring, my wife Kelly and I are beginning to see a spiritual awakening at the track. More people are asking questions and seeking God for answers in their lives. Sometimes, it’s as simple as someone coming up and asking for prayer. Sometimes, they’re just curious about what we believe, or maybe they sense a peace and joy in us and want to know where that comes from. Other times, they share about their upbringing and attending church as a child or young person, but then confess they haven’t faithfully followed the Lord for many years. Whatever the case – whether a new or dormant seed – the warmth of God’s love is bringing these seeds to life.
As chaplains, our job is like that of a gardener: to tend and care for the garden, ensuring all the
tend and care for the garden, ensuring all the seeds and plants have the water and nutrients they need to grow. And just as the gardener can’t make plants and flowers grow, we can’t “grow” Christians. In other words, it’s not a chaplain’s job to save people but rather to be faithful in preparing the soil, planting and tending the seeds, then allowing God to take control and bring the fruit.
In 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, the Apostle Paul talks about the importance of preparing the soil, planting, and watering. “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.” And it’s not the job of only those of us who are chaplains, but all of us who are believers in Christ. We all have a part in sharing the Gospel. In verses 10-11, Paul continues, “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation
other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
I’m thankful for those I am blessed to work alongside in the ministry. But I’m also grateful for all the other believers at the races who are out there, sharing God’s love without the title of ‘chaplain’ embroidered on their shirts. And I appreciate all those who came before us and prepared the soil, planted seeds, and watered—those who helped establish RFC’s foundation and built on the solid rock of Christ our Savior.
It’s hard to believe I began as a volunteer chaplain with Racers For Christ 15 years ago and have worked full-time for the ministry these past 10 years! What a blessing it’s been to serve as the executive director, traveling and working alongside Kelly as the national series chaplains for the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series. These last several years, we have seen a genuine renewed hunger for God’s Word, and we’re witnessing lots of new growth beginning to sprout in the motorsports world!
I want to say “Thank you!” to everyone who serves or supports the ministry of Racers For Christ. Because of you, we’re seeing God’s Kingdom grow!
Eddie & Kelly held a baby dedication that included Buddy & Madi Hull’s son Maverick at the Texas FallNationals in Ennis.
Kelly prays with a Jr Off-Road racer at the CORR race at Firebird Motorsports Park in Chandler, AZ.
Eddie prays with Pro Stock driver Fernando Cuadra, Jr., at the NHRA Arizona Nationals.
2024 Impact Report
2187
10 Assistants
42 New Chaplains
537
53
88
10
94
20
Weddings
An Out-Of-Season Moment
Chaplain Michael Norris
Serving at a large car show in Texas, Chaplain Michael was encouraged when the show’s promoter said he’d be interested in having a chapel service at the event. Michael quickly put together a short talk, the chapel service was announced, and 25 or so people arrived to listen to his message. “It was well received, with lots of positive feedback,” Michael reported.
A memorial service for “John,” a well-known local motorsports fan, was also being held at the venue that day. “One of the organizers asked me if I was going,” Michael said. “I didn’t know John but said I might go. I decided to, and – locating where the service was being held – I signed the register and sat for a while. The service didn’t start at the scheduled time, so I stepped out for a few minutes and came back, but nothing was happening yet. Leaving and returning a second time, things still hadn’t gotten underway, and I was invited to enjoy the refreshments they were serving. A few minutes after I’d sat down to eat, another of the show organizers came over with a young lady – John’s daughter – and told me the minister that was supposed to do the service hadn’t arrived (a half-foot of snow had fallen overnight) and asked if I could do something.
“I’ve never done a service for someone I didn’t know and certainly not without time to prepare. But, after reading John’s obituary on my phone, I led the service. God definitely provided, and I was honored to help.”
The Bible tells us, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Tim. 4:2). Our chaplains never know when or why they’ll be called on to serve. Michael rose to the need that day and proved himself a blessing to a family honoring their loved one.
Caring Community
Chaplain Desiree Flath
The vehicles roll in one by one. Whether a weekend event, a one-day show, an evening cruise-in, or a morning cars-and-coffee, each vehicle represents a life – the owner has a story to tell, car-related or otherwise. This is a community. Diverse. Similar. Young. Old. Guys. Gals. Enjoying life. Struggling with life. Talkative. Quiet. The community is formed by a common bond: vintage and tricked-out machines on wheels – cars, bikes, trucks, and others – and each vehicle represents an individual loved by God.
For Rodders For Christ chaplains, God is using our hobby as a ministry tool. He brings us into a group of people with a common interest where discussions can be started and bonds formed, and His hand begins to move in beautiful ways. It’s a great honor and so humbling for a Rodders chaplain to be welcomed into this community and (hopefully) become the “God person” in their midst – someone who’s available to them, someone who can be trusted, confided in, and depended upon. We invest the time to get to know our crowd, and it can take years of showing up at local events, meeting folks, and getting to know them personally. What a blessing when people say, “Hey, I remember you,” or “Hey, I remember your car,” and we can say the same!
God opens doors for public prayers at these events and for us to share about the ministry. It’s always a blessing to give someone a Bible, some other witnessing tool, or information on RFC and be able to pray with them or lend a listening ear.
There are so many car events throughout the season – endless opportunities! – so we ask that God supply more individuals to reach this wonderful car community. It’s a compassionate group of believers at RFC. The Lord has created a caring community among us to build each other up, showing support and care, which helps fill our cups so we can pour out His love to those around us. “Fueling Faith” is accurate! We all need full tanks to run the race and finish well.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35).
Donor Spotlight
John and Roni Richardson
How did you get into motorsports?
John started racing in 1965. He had a ‘55 Chevy that was his parents’ car. They were going to trade it in for another vehicle, and he asked if he could buy it. We still have that car; she’s been restored but no longer gets raced. After a long break, John started racing again in 1995 in Super Comp. We currently race with NHRA in the Top Dragster class. I (Roni) would go with John, but sitting and doing nothing is not my style. So, I asked what I could do to help, and now I’m his crew chief. We make a good team and work together really well.
How did you first learn of Racers For Christ?
I’m sure we first learned about RFC when we saw their chaplains walking through the lanes, asking drivers if they would like prayer. That’s so special – to have a chaplain pray with us before making a run down the track, knowing there’s always a chance something could happen.
What do RFC’s ministry and mission mean to you?
We love and appreciate all the work that RFC does for us. Racing wouldn’t be the same without RFC chaplains; they’re all so friendly and have become wonderful friends! They’re a great source of comfort, out there on their feet in the heat all day for us. Sometimes we’re lucky enough to have three different people pray with us before we race!! No harm in getting prayed with more than once – just more angels flying down the track over John and our car!
As financial supporters of RFC, what do you want your gifts to accomplish?
We are blessed to be able to help support the organization, and we want RFC to continue being a blessing for everyone at the track and expanding their
reach in motorsports. There can never be too many chaplains spreading the word of God.
What’s something you wish everyone knew about RFC?
We wish people understood that RFC chaplains are not at events to convert them. They don’t “push religion” on people. They’re there to pray with and encourage us, and if you aren’t open to that, it’s okay. But always keep in mind they’re out there and available. If there’s an accident at the track, they’re on hand to care for all the people involved, the crews, the raceway, and those in the grandstands.
What would you say to someone who’s considering donating to RFC?
You’re supporting an organization that supports racers in any way they can. They’re friendly, loving people who can turn out to be a best friend!
Do you have a favorite memory involving the ministry?
We have two favorite memories. The first is from 20 years ago when we competed at the racetrack in Fallon, NV. Chaplains Jim & Linda Jack were serving there…just wonderful people. Jim was conducting the chapel service that Sunday and learned it was our 35th wedding anniversary. Right in the middle of the service, he called us up in front of all the racers to renew our vows! We had no clue he would do that – it was so special! The second memory is winning our first National race at Sonoma Raceway in 2018. We wanted all the RFC chaplains in the photos with us – it wouldn’t have been as fantastic a win without them there!
Anything else you want to share?
Every interaction with RFC staff and volunteers is memorable. We cannot emphasize enough how important, happy, and friendly the RFCers are! I know I sound like a broken record, but it’s true – they’re just super people!
John and Roni celebrate with their Top Dragster Wally at the 2018 NHRA Sonoma Nationals.
Women’s Retreat 2025
Chaplain Kelly Baugher
What a fantastic time we had back in January at our “Women Walking in Faith” retreat! More than 40 women gathered in Indianapolis, IN, to reflect and grow through glimpses into God’s Word. We fellowshipped through worship, activities, meals, and plenty of laughter, making new friends and renewing acquaintances over our weekend together. Guest speakers Carol Tetzlaff (author, speaker, publisher – Redemption-Press.com) and Rebecca George (author and podcast host – RadicalRadiance.live) challenged us through the reminder of how vital our Bible reading is as we seek and strengthen our relationship with God in those moments. Carol shared, “The fear of God calls us to walk out the gospel boldly and joyfully. When we truly know God and believe in His promises, our lives become testimonies of grace. This walk inspires others to know Him as we carry the good news to every corner of the world.”
The mission of RFC Women is to build a female community of love and support in the motorsports world. If you’re part of a racing, rodding, track, or event team, a chaplain or ministry assistant, or the wife/girlfriend of any of the above, please plan now to join us in Indy next winter (January 9-10, 2026). We’d love to hear your testimony and passion for serving our Lord in and through motorsports! Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”(Isaiah 30:21)
Feeling the Love
Chaplain Greg Wangler
Off-Track Divine Appointment
Chaplain Rob Brown
The best part about that trip to the gas station was…I didn’t need gas – I just felt compelled to stop for it. God is so good!
My Path, His Purpose
Chaplain Larry Elliot
Cory Penfold, track promoter at Willamette Speedway
My wife Patti and I recently began our third year living in Oregon, and there have been some challenges. But the Lord’s affirmation of this new path became evident soon after we arrived. As I found my way in a new and unfamiliar environment, God faithfully placed people in my path for His purposes.
The first track I visited was Willamette Speedway in Lebanon, OR. I introduced myself to the track promoter Cory Penfold and his wife Sandy. (God put them right in front of me, and little did I know what the following year at the track would bring.) “Okay, you’re our new chaplain!” Cory said after our introduction, and it made me smile. He, Sandy, and the racing fans at Willamette were hungry for Jesus. We embraced that and let the Holy Spirit lead. Fast forward a year. Cory was diagnosed with throat cancer and needed surgery for a shoulder issue…a lot to take in. During one of our conversations, I asked Cory how he was with God. He responded, “He’s my Savior.” I knew then Jesus was at work in him. We prayed continuously, and on the day of his cancer surgery, all went as God had planned, with no unforeseen issues. The tumor was removed, and healing began. Cory had his shoulder surgery shortly thereafter, and during his recuperation, we met for lunch and discussed what would be next.
As we go about our daily grind, we sometimes forget to stay aligned with God. In those times, we can struggle to stay in the Word and submit all things to Him. The move to Oregon hasn’t been without difficulty. Still, the affirmation I received from watching God work in the lives of Cory and Sandy at Willamette has been nothing short of witnessing a modern-day miracle.
The flame of Cory’s testimony has been fanned – “It was all Jesus,” he says of his recovery. He’s a man who loves the Lord, overseeing a track with a bunch of race fans who love Him, too! Our prayers have been ongoing for God to bring complete healing to Cory and to continue a good work in all of us as we seek His discernment during this next year of racing. RFC is “Fueling Faith” at Willamette Speedway!
Photos from the Field
Troy Van Horn of CO competed at the Southwest Showdown in Parker, AZ, February 1-2, winning Top Eliminator class (7.00 second index). An RFC decal is seen on the scoop. Photo by Mark McLaughlin.
Chaplains Russ Hamilton and Rob Brown pray with NHRA Super Comp drivers in the staging lanes at the Region 7 double divisional at Firebird Motorsports Park in Chandler, AZ.
At the Pro Super Star Shootout in Rising Sun, MD, Chaplain Russ Elzy prays with C/SA driver Greg Lubben.
We’re excited about the growth of the RFC Kids program! We have a new logo, along with new opportunities to reach the next gen of racing fans!
At Funny Car Chaos in Odessa, TX, Chaplain Liz Abbott helps the kids make crafts in the RFC Kids area.
Chaplains Kevin Cooke & Ed Preston pray with Top Sportsman racer Ronnie Proctor at the Lucas Oil Divisional race in Rising Sun, MD.
Chaplain Hugh Goodale prays with Top Alcohol Funny Car driver D.J. Cox at the Night Under Fire race at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, OH.
Chaplain Scott Griffith baptizes racer Waylon at the East Coast Jr Division Finals in the creek that runs through Bristol Dragway.
Praying with a racer from Chicago, Chaplain Joseph McCoy serves at Hot Rod Dragweek in Columbus, OH.
Giving fist bumps in the staging lanes at Knoxville Raceway in IA is Chaplain Jackson Whitacre.
At the Veterans of America Car Show & Shine in Salem, OR, Chaplain Michael Prowell and his wife Bobette pose next to a Camaro Bumblebee Transformer car.
Chaplain Justin Lawson prays at the driver’s meeting at Valley Speedway in Grain Valley, MO.
At Milan Dragway in MI, Chaplain Rob Herman preaches from God’s Word.