The Anglican Church Cricket Festival (ACCF) will celebrate a joyful milestone – its 10th anniversary – on July 12 at Creditview Sandalwood Park in Brampton. Since its humble beginnings in 2016 as a friendly match between St. Thomas à Becket, Erin Mills South and St. Peter, Erindale, the ACCF has grown into a beloved annual gathering that unites churches across the GTA in a day of sport, fellowship and faithful fun.
Rooted in the idea that community-building can happen on and off the pitch, ACCF offers a unique space where all are welcome, seasoned players, first-timers, children, seniors and curious spectators alike. The festival uses modified rules to ensure inclusive participation, embodying the gospel message of welcome, inclusion and joy.
More than a game, the ACCF is a space for the working of the Holy Spirit through cricket in the lives of young and old, churched and unchurched, skilled cricketers and enthusiastic amateurs alike.
“Cricket, for many of us, is more than a game – it’s a language of community,” says Anand Natesan, captain of last year’s winning team from Westney Heights Baptist Church. “The ACCF feels like worship in motion. Every cheer and high-five becomes an act of praise. It reminds us that sport can be a joyful reflection of faith – God’s love in action.”
This year’s festival promises to be more exciting than ever, with the possibility of welcoming new teams to the lineup. Back for more friendly rivalry are our beloved regulars: Church of South India, Toronto; Holy Family, Heart Lake; St. Bede; St. James the Apostle, Brampton; St. Joseph of Nazareth, Bramalea; St. Jude, Bramalea North; and St. Thomas à Becket, Erin Mills South. And we can’t forget the ever-spirited Clergy & Friends XI, led by the Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields. Expect a day full of matches, music, food and plenty of laughs!
As host city, Brampton continues to play a vital role in fostering this celebration of sport and spirit. The Rev. Jeff Stone, a longtime supporter and key inspiration behind the cricket team from St. Jude’s, says, “The ACCF isn’t just about cricket. It’s about witnessing the community of God’s good-news bearers, gathering in joy to enjoy a little fun competition. That’s the beauty of this festival – it opens hearts while opening innings.”
Join the celebration – your presence matters!
To register or volunteer for the ACCF, contact Ranil Mendis, ODT at [email protected].
Let us renew our commitments to truth and reconciliation