Charlie Lindgren brings noble idea into locker room and tightens the team's bond
Photo credit: NHL
Charlie Lindgren has brought Faith and Bible Studies to the Washington Capitals organization, forming one of NHL's tightest locker rooms, and a bond that translates into both the players' lives and their play on the ice.
On Breakdown Day, Jacob Chychrun was asked, What was the biggest thing you learned about yourself this season? As he reflected on the number of things that he no doubt took away from his first season with the Capitals, he then focused on one key area that has impacted his life on and off the ice, and answered, Religion.
The 26 year-old Chychrun was traded to the Capitals this offseason and signed an 8-year contract extension; he commented on how Christianity has played a big part in his growth this year.
"I think it's made me a completely better person, better teammate, better son, brother, husband. It's given me a different perspective on even coming to the rink every day. I just feel vey grateful for this season."
Yet, Jakob Chychrun was not the only player to embrace his faith. In truth, it's been a key factor in helping bring together the Capitals and more than 2k players from across North America from all leagues.
About eight to ten Caps players practice the Christian Faith together, which includes attending weekly chapel services and bible studies, and is led in large part by DC goaltender Charlie Lindgren.
"This team does such a good job of just bringing guys in and making them feel comfortable," Lindgren said. "Faith's played an important role in my life, especially the last few years. We've got numerous other believers on the team now."
Lindgren, who introduced the idea of, 'agape love' - the most unconditional and highest form of love - emphasized that regardless of a player's personal beliefs, everyone is accepted and welcomed in the room, where 25 unique individuals are able to feel totally comfortable and there is no judgement.
Both Lindgren and the Capitals work with Hockey Ministries International's chapel program that was established in 1979 and is active in 42 leagues across North America.
HMI's goal is to provide teams with a local chaplain and make faith resources available to players of all backgrounds and beliefs.
Over 2000 players have benefited from HMI's services.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 7 | 19 ANSWERS Charlie Lindgren brings noble idea into locker room and tightens the team's bond Do you believe that faith is important in an individual's personal life? | ||
| Yes | 14 | 73.7 % |
| No | 5 | 26.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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