Maryland FCA Board Member Joe Xavier is turning his childhood love of go-kart racing into a powerful ministry, using the track as a mission field to share the love of Christ with others. What began as a personal connection to the sport quickly became a vision to reach his community in a dynamic, hands-on environment.
The idea took root one Thanksgiving when Joe came across a photo of himself as a young boy, beaming behind the wheel of a go-kart with his nickname “Turbo” printed on the helmet.
“It just brought back so many memories,” said Joe. “I remember that feeling of joy as a kid being out there on the track. When I saw that picture, I thought, ‘Why not use this same passion to reach others for Christ?’”
That moment turned into a calling. As a Maryland FCA Board Member, Joe was already serving the ministry by fundraising, supporting staff and investing in the next generation of student leaders. Now, on the track, Joe has found a fresh way to live out that same mission.
“I’ve seen firsthand how sports can open doors,” said Joe. “Racing is an unconventional sport, but it just so happens to be in my lane. If this is where people are, this is where we need to be as the Church.”
The go-kart ministry has grown steadily over the past two summers, starting at the Sandy Hook Motor Speedway in Hartford County. Families of all ages arrive with karts in trailers, and the FCA tent near the track becomes a hub for prayer and conversation about Scripture.
“It’s a unique chance to meet people where they are,” said Tommy Schumacher, FCA Director of Hartford County, who has been alongside Joe since the go-kart ministry began. “Sometimes it takes just one conversation, one moment on the track, to plant a seed that grows into faith.”
Even racers as young as six years old have been introduced to the principles of competition alongside faith. Joe’s cart is wrapped in the FCA logo and numbered 316 in reference to John 3:16. It is a good conversation starter, and FCA volunteers are able to share the story behind the number in simple, tangible ways.
“I love watching kids get excited about racing and then pause to hear about God’s love,” said Joe. “It’s faith in action. A lot of these families aren’t in church on Sundays as they’re at the track. So that’s where we go. That’s where we bring Jesus.”
Because of the expense and risks involved with racing, the ministry requires careful planning and dedicated support for each Sunday event. Volunteers help set up the tent, run devotionals and maintain the FCA kart.
“It’s a community effort,” said Tommy. “We’ve got college students, FCA staff and parents all pitching in. It’s a reminder that ministry doesn’t happen alone. God brings the right people together at the right time.”
Joe’s own family has long been part of the FCA mission and helps with the go-kart ministry. One of his sons served as an FCA intern, and his daughter, a standout FCA Leader in high school, now continues to lead with faith at the Air Force Academy.
“I’m so proud of all of my children,” said Joe. “They’ve seen what it means to serve. That’s what I want for all of these kids that we meet at the track: To grow up knowing that their gifts can make an impact for God.”
“Joe and his family go above and beyond in serving others,” said Tommy. “Joe gives his time and resources, and he genuinely loves people. His heart for God and sharing the Gospel is evident in everything he does, from serving as a Board Member to serving on the racetrack.”
Though still young, the go-kart ministry’s impact is evident. Families leave encouraged and equipped to take the next steps in their faith. Each race reinforces a larger lesson from 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
For Joe Xavier, racing is no longer just a childhood memory. It’s a reenergized purpose to bring hope, share the Good News of Jesus Christ and build community one lap at a time.
To learn more about FCA Motorsports, which includes go-kart racing, visit their website at fcamx.org.
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