PONTE VEDRA BEACH – The Players Championship The Players Championship, held each year at TPC Sawgrass’ Stadium Course, has been won by some of the most recognized names in the golf world – Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Tiger Woods, Rory Mcllroy and former Middleburg resident Mark McCumber.

This year, the 2023 Players Championship runs from March 7-12, and you may see McCumber – but he won’t have a golf club in his hands. McCumber volunteers to share encouraging Bible messages when he is not designing golf courses or working as a sports commentator on SiriusXM.

“Winning the Players Championship was extremely rewarding,” said McCumber, “but nothing compares with the joy I feel when getting the opportunity to share with others, as Jesus described it, the ‘Good News of God’s Kingdom.’”

McCumber won the prestigious tournament in 1988.

Suppose you dine at one of the many fine restaurants before or after the tournament. In that case, McCumber and other volunteers Jehovah’s Witnesses may offer free Bible literature at portable carts around Sawgrass.

“I truly love the opportunity to share with others what I’ve learned from the Bible and how it has helped me in my life,” said McCumber. So what does he do when someone recognizes him? “I usually just smile and say, ‘I guess you are a golfer too!’ It really just allows me to start a discussion with someone with whom I share a mutual interest.”

Jehovah’s Witnesses, including McCumber, have recently resumed their public ministry due to the coronavirus pandemic and their concern for keeping everyone safe.

“We believe that the early decision to shut down all in-person activities for more than two years has saved many lives,” said Robert Hendriks, U.S. spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “We’re now ready and eager to reconnect with our neighbors once again – person-to-person, face-to-face. It’s not the only way we preach, but it has historically been the most effective way to deliver our message of comfort and hope.”

McCumber said the principles he learned from the Bible helped him in his personal life and playing golf.

“The Bible lists patience as a fruitage of God’s spirit. To succeed as a professional golfer, you must exercise patience, take one shot at a time and handle the challenges presented. That is also true in our ministry.”