Mauldin, the president and CEO of Motor
Racing Outreach since 2002, leads a ministry that serves
the racing community. He spoke and answered questions
from the students and pastors.
For the racing families who tour the
circuit for its 60 or so events a year, Mauldin said,
Sundays at the race track are more the rule than the
exception. MRO gives those families, workers, drivers,
and media members a chance to attend services, as well
as receive counseling and personal prayer. Maudlin said
the level of commitment of those he meets is all over
the board.
“The range runs from apathetic to on–fire
for the Lord,” he said. “But we thank God we are given
the privilege of doing this ministry.”
MRO ministers attend the mandatory
drivers’ meetings on race–day and typically conduct a
simple service about 1.5 hours before the festivities
begin. They also pray with each driver after they take
an introductory lap right before the checkered flag
drops. But it’s the quiet times, rather than the
emotionally charged ones, Mauldin said, when real growth
takes place.
“I have found the best opportunities to
minister to people is when I’m standing in the garage
leaning against a stack of tires,” he said.
Mauldin also added that his ministry
prays “beyond the safety of the driver,” even though
that’s always at the top of everyone’s list.
“I think the best thing you can pray for
is peace and the knowledge of God’s presence.”
The pastors, students, and guests all
enjoyed a barbeque lunch to end the day’s festivities.
