Ohio State Football Players' Second Annual 'Invitation to Jesus' Draws Over 2,000

Columbus, Ohio – Over 2,000 individuals gathered on the Ohio State University campus this week for the second annual "An Invitation to Jesus" event, spearheaded by Ohio State Buckeye football players. The event, held on September 8 or 9, 2025, fostered an atmosphere of fellowship, baptism, unity, and personal testimony, drawing a significant crowd to College Green.

The gathering featured worship, prayer, and public baptisms, with current and former Ohio State players sharing their faith journeys. Former receiver Kamryn Babb, a key organizer, was instrumental in bringing the event to fruition, which also saw collaboration with local Christian churches and student organizations. Attendees reportedly received Bibles, further emphasizing the event's spiritual focus.

Prominent players like Emeka Egbuka and TreVeyon Henderson delivered powerful testimonies. Egbuka spoke of a "radical change" in his life since encountering the Holy Spirit, stating, "The world didn’t give me this joy, the world can’t take it away." Henderson echoed this sentiment, asserting, "Jesus changed my life, set me free from my sin, made me holy, made me righteous." Other Buckeyes, including Gee Scott Jr., J.T. Tuimoloau, Caleb Downs, and Sonny Styles, also participated, using their platform to share their beliefs.

This year's large turnout builds on the success of the inaugural event held on August 25, 2024, which also attracted thousands and included numerous baptisms. The consistent and growing participation highlights a notable movement of faith within the Ohio State football program and the wider university community. The tweet from "Publius" expressed a broader hope: > "WOULDN'T THIS BE GREAT TO SEE ON EVERY CAMPUS IN AMERICA?"

The event underscores a growing trend of college athletes openly expressing and sharing their faith, aiming to inspire and impact their communities beyond the athletic arena. Players emphasized their desire to leave a legacy rooted in spiritual impact, viewing their platform as an opportunity to lead others in a positive direction.