Arise

Live Out Your Faith and Dreams on Whatever Field You Find Yourself

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Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw is best known for the curveball Vin Scully dubbed "Public Enemy Number One." But Clayton sees his ability to throw a baseball as just one way he lives out his passion for God. In Arise, he teams up with his wife, Ellen, to share what they have learned about making a difference in the world while living out one's God-given dreams. Long before Clayton began his pro baseball career, he and Ellen made a commitment to live out their faith in Christ by giving to others--and they see their success on and off the field as blessings to be shared with those who are hurting most.


Endorsements

At Fellowship of Christian Athletes, our core values are integrity, teamwork, excellence, and serving. As athletes and people who care for others, Clayton and Ellen have risen to the challenge and live out these values. Their story shows they are champions whom young people can follow.

Dan Britton, senior vice president of Fellowship of Christian Athletes

I believe that the more clearly we see God, the more joyfully we serve others for the sake of the gospel. Clayton and Ellen have clearly seen God in the person and work of Jesus, and they are joyfully serving others as a result. Clayton and Ellen's humility is evident in the way they treat others, the way they invest their time, and the way they serve. Clayton and Ellen have taken the teachings of Jesus to heart, and they're making a difference. Read their story and find out how you can as well.

Brandon Cash, pastor of Oceanside Christian Fellowship, El Segundo, California, chaplain of the Los Angeles Dodgers

Clayton Kershaw has moved from good to great, both on and off the field. He and his wife, Ellen, have just scratched the surface of what they can become, and they challenge us to also reach much higher limits in our own lives.

Orel Hershiser, 1988 NL Cy Young Award winner and world-champion Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher

I have been inspired by the passion that Ellen and Clayton share for Zambia. The children and the bleak living conditions have left a lasting impression on them, and it is incredible to notice the Lord stirring in their hearts to make a difference. Partnering with the Kershaws is a joy. I've seen their love for Africa grow, and I thank God for the privilege of working together to impact the children that Arise Africa strives to help.

Alissa Hollimon, president and cofounder of Arise Africa

Sure, Clayton led the National League in wins last year and even won the pitching triple crown, and that's all great . . . but what's greater still are the thousands of life-changing wins he and his wife, Ellen, get to enjoy every day through their work with Arise Africa. We've got to grow more Clayton Kershaws--not just for the future of baseball, but also for the future of the world. God bless them!

Frank Pastore, KKLA radio show host, author and retired major-league pitcher

While baseball fans are familiar with Clayton and his impressive accomplishments on the pitching mound, this book is about helping people away from the lights of the baseball field. Clayton and Ellen's mission work in Africa as a young couple and their dedication to their faith gives people an inspiring example of how people can practice their faith and achieve great things no matter what their age.

Andy Pettitte, retired major-league pitcher and five-time World Series champion, New York Yankees

Clayton and Ellen Kershaw are the kind of young people that our world needs to see. This book gives unique insight into their lives of baseball and impact in Africa. It invites the readers into their world through stories of growing up and finding satisfaction in the things they love the most. The greatest contribution a ballplayer can make isn't on the field; it's in the lives of those he meets--although it does add to his appeal if he also leads the league in strikeouts. That kind of performance allows me the best seat in the house.

Vin Scully, Hall of Fame sportscaster and the legendary voice of the Dodgers

Clayton and Ellen Kershaw's heart for God and for children is truly inspirational. I love seeing people who are extraordinarily gifted use their platform for good. . . especially when they are giving glory to God while doing so. Clayton and Ellen are such individuals! Prepare to be inspired.

Rebecca St. James, singer, author, and actress

Clayton and Ellen Kershaw are two young people who see that life is not about paychecks and status, but rather life's greatest joy is found in relationships with Jesus Christ and people. As the Cy Young Award-winning pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Clayton could just live his life focused on his career and all the perks that come with it, but instead he is committed to using his influence to help others. In this honest and easy-to-read book, you will be inspired, encouraged, and motivated to give every aspect of your life to honor God.

Philip and Holly Wagner, pastors of Oasis Church Los Angeles and authors

Clayton and Ellen Kershaw have given us a powerful gift with Arise. Their journey of faith is so hopeful and inspiring. But Arise does more than just inspire; it sets the table for us to live beyond ourselves and pursue God's calling in our lives. This is a much needed call to a life of authentic faith for our time!

Jud Wilhite, author of Torn and senior pastor of Central Christian Church, Las Vegas, Nevada


The Authors

  1. Clayton Kershaw

    Clayton Kershaw

    Clayton Kershaw was selected in the first round of the 2006 MLB Draft and is starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

    Continue reading about Clayton Kershaw

  2. Ellen Kershaw

    Ellen Kershaw

    Ellen Kershaw is the wife of Los Angeles Dodgers' pitcher Clayton Kershaw. During college at Texas A + M, Ellen spent time in Zambia, where her passion for African orphans became a mission. After dating for eight years, Clayton and Ellen married in December...

    Continue reading about Ellen Kershaw

  3. Ann Higginbottom

    Ann Higginbottom

    Continue reading about Ann Higginbottom