Craig Cornelsen

Craig was born and raised in the Evangelical Mennonite Conference and came to know Christ at a young age. Sports has always been a huge part of his life and it was at Briercrest Bible College as a young adult where he was able to integrate his faith and sports in a meaningful way. Since then, Craig & Laura have been committed to serving the Lord and His church in different capacities - most recently serving as Pastor at Picture Butte Mennonite Church in southern Alberta.

In June of 2025, at their 20-week ultrasound appointment, Craig & Laura's fourth child was diagnosed with a complex congenital heart condition, requiring multiple surgeries after birth. This turn of events triggered their relocation to Laura's hometown of Camrose, AB in order to be closer to the Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton as well as family support. They also made the extremely difficult decision to not return to their pastorate in Picture Butte. As hard as it was to see that door close, the door to serving with Sports Friends appeared to swing open.

Craig is preparing to serve as the Sports Friends Canada Regional Representative for the province of Alberta. His mission is to partner with local churches in equipping coaches and leaders to establish sustainable sports ministries for both outreach and discipleship. Craig is passionate about using sports as a tool to bring people together, creating opportunities for the gospel to be proclaimed. He will be travelling across the province, building a network of churches and pastors, as well as ministering to the sporting community locally in Camrose.

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:8 (NIV)