On frozen rinks across New England, HMI New England is on a mission to thaw hearts with the Gospel. Our purpose is to grow HMI’s chapel ministry throughout the region, reaching professional, collegiate, and up-and-coming hockey players at every level of the game. We serve the hockey community through intentional relationships and discipleship, carrying the Gospel both on and off the ice. In addition, HMI New England is committed to launching an HMI Christian Hockey Camp, where young athletes are equipped to grow spiritually and athletically while learning to live out their faith.
New england
Hockey Ministries International
Sam Gonzalez
HMI New England Chaplain/Coordinator
Chapels
Church brought directly to hockey players, meeting them where they spend the most time—the rink! Participation is entirely voluntary, giving players the freedom to choose whether or not they want to engage. Each chapel is designed to reach and impact everyone, no matter where they are in their faith journey. They are engaging, educational, and deeply relational, offering a space where players can explore Scripture without feeling overwhelmed by traditional church settings. Chapels break down barriers, creating an environment where hearts are open, questions are welcomed, and players leave with a clearer understanding of biblical truth and how it applies to their daily lives both on and off the ice.
Since starting last fall with just two teams, our chapel community has grown rapidly, now serving seven teams across the region. This growth reflects the hunger for faith-centered connection in the hockey world and the impact of bringing the Gospel directly to players where they are.
Current Chapels
Springfield Thunderbirds
AHL
Worcester railers
ECHL
University of Massachusetts
NCAA DI
University of Connecticut
NCAA DI
University of Vermont
NCAA DI
Connecticut College
NCAA DIII
Lucas mercuri
Chapel was a grounding part of my season. It gave me space to reset, reflect, and be reminded of what really matters—both on and off the field. Those moments of connection and perspective made a real difference. Whether it was something someone shared or just the quiet time to think, it always seemed to show up right when I needed it. It helped me stay centered and brought a sense of peace during the ups and downs of the season.
adam Sykora
I feel like Chapel is helping me to understand God more and deeper, I feel like it is giving me hope and power. When there is some situation in my life I am facing, I learned, that I can give it on God and he will handle it for me. Chapel gave me a lot this year even a church I now visit, it was one of the best experience in my life. It was a special year, with special people I would say, which gave me a lot to my spiritual and normal life
Matt kessel
Sam was a big part of a year full of transitions for me. And I know he made a impact on our team in Springfield. He helped us grow closer to God, each other, and feel more comfortable talking about God in our lives and locker room. Chapels became a important part of the weekly routine and keep us focused on what mattered most.
Tyler Muszelik
Chapel with Sam played a big part in helping me get through the busy school and hockey season. It was something that I looked forward to every week and helped give me a moment of peace and helped me reset each week. Having a new theme and new points of emphasis every week kept me focused, motivated, and connected to my faith. Chapel gave me strength to push through the tough times and I am grateful for that.
Camps
HMI Camps are truly one-of-a-kind experiences for kids ages 8–18. On the ice, campers receive top-quality coaching from professional players, college athletes, and coaches—many of whom also participate in our chapels during the year—providing mentorship both in skill and character. Off the ice, campers enjoy all the best parts of a traditional summer camp, from games and activities to friendships that last a lifetime. Most importantly, every day includes Bible studies and a chapel service, giving campers opportunities to grow spiritually while having the time of their lives.
We aim to launch our Camp by the summer of 2027 in southeastern Connecticut. This location will help us reach young players not only throughout New England’s hockey communities, but also those in the eastern parts of Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey who travel within this broad northeastern region.