On Friday evening, January 30, more than 250 members of Christ Church Plano gathered at 7 p.m. for what is becoming a beloved annual tradition for our parish: Night at the Rink. Together, our church family packed the stands to cheer on the Allen Americans in a thrilling 5–4 victory over the Rapid City Rush.
From the opening faceoff, the energy was unmistakable. Children jumped and danced between rows, friends found one another across sections, and cheers erupted with every goal. It was loud, joyful, and wonderfully chaotic—the kind of night where memories are made and laughter and conversation continue even after the game ends.
For Bishop Paul Donison, the evening held special meaning. Originally from Canada, where hockey is woven into the fabric of everyday life, Bishop Paul has long loved the sport. Joined by Monika and their two youngest daughters—all proudly wearing Allen Americans gear—he leaned fully into the moment. Before the game even began, Bishop Paul delighted the crowd by riding the Zamboni, and throughout the night he could be seen enthusiastically leading cheers as each goal was scored.
But as fun as the game was, Night at the Rink has always been about more than the scoreboard. It’s about creating space for the church to simply be together—to sit shoulder to shoulder, talk between periods, cheer side by side, and share the kinds of conversations and moments that only happen organically.
As the final buzzer sounded and families began to head home, it was clear that the night had offered more than just a winning score. In cheering together, laughing together, and simply being present with one another, our church family experienced something essential to life in the kingdom of God. These unplanned moments—shared joy, familiar faces, easy conversation—are how relationships deepen and faith is lived side by side. Night at the Rink reminded us that while the church is formed primarily in gathered worship, it is also in the everyday joys where Jesus meets us in community.
