Surf and spirituality: Chandler Brownlee connects faith and waves in Costa Rica.

Chandler Brownlee, a passionate surfer and former Baptist minister, finds himself in a paradise corner of the Costa Rican coast, where the waves are a magnet for surf lovers. However, his mission goes beyond the search for the best waves; he is here to share his faith. With the Bible in hand, Brownlee represents Christian Surfers, an organization that seeks to connect surfers with God, guiding them on a spiritual journey through their love for the sea and nature. The scene on the beach reveals an environment where spirituality and surfing coexist in an unusual way. Brownlee, a 52-year-old man and father of three daughters, combines his life as a real estate agent with his passion for surfing and his dedication to God. Watching surfers retreat after a fun day in the water, he feels encouraged by the dedication they show, a dedication he hopes to use to plant seeds of faith. According to him, many surfers traveling in search of the perfect wave often find themselves empty inside, which presents an opportunity for God to enter their lives. The Christian Surfers organization, which has over 175 chapters in 35 countries, has recently established itself in Pavones, a Costa Rican town famous for its left wave. With only 4,000 inhabitants, Pavones is a place where isolation and lack of infrastructure attract committed surfers, which, according to Brownlee, facilitates a deeper connection with them. In his opinion, the quest for the perfect wave can lead to a more meaningful spiritual search. The missionaries of Christian Surfers present themselves in a friendly and accessible manner, swapping collared shirts for swimsuits and setting aside any appearance that might alienate surfers. The strategy is clear: to offer a "bridge from the beach to the church," where the pressure to attend a religious service does not exist. Instead, they seek to create bonds of friendship and love through shared experiences in the water and the surrounding environment. The "Surfer's Bible," a resource they distribute, is designed to attract this audience. With a cover that displays a wave instead of a cross, the focus is less on proselytizing and more on genuine connection. Stories of surfers who have found God are shared, such as the testimony of Bianca Buitendag, who attributes her success in surfing to understanding God's unconditional love. These accounts aim to inspire others to find a purpose beyond competitions and the pursuit of fame. The story of Christian Surfers began in Australia in the 1970s when a group of surfers decided that it was possible to be a surf lover and a devoted Christian. Despite the discrimination they faced both on beaches and in churches, they persevered. Today, their work in Costa Rica is supported by families like the Leons, who have taken the initiative to create spaces where faith and surfing intertwine naturally and without judgment. Kyle and Dennis Leon, who have been involved with Christian Surfers for years, are dedicated to attracting local youth. In their home, where young people gather to share moments, watch surf videos, and study the Bible, a family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere is created. The idea is that no one feels intimidated by the experience of a traditional church; rather, a sense of belonging is promoted, where everyone is welcome regardless of their level of faith. During a recent gathering, the atmosphere is relaxed, filled with laughter and conversations about surfing, as the young people prepare to start a Bible study. The dynamic is clear: there is no pressure to convert immediately; instead, they are invited to explore their spirituality at their own pace. This approach, according to Dennis, allows young people to feel less pressure and more curiosity, which can open the door to deeper conversations about faith and purpose. The Pura Vida church, which the Leons lead, reflects this open and accessible approach. With masses on the beach and in their home, the goal is to create a space where spirituality and love for surfing merge. Conversations about life, surfing, and God flow naturally, and although few attendees have made the decision to accept Jesus into their hearts, the atmosphere of acceptance gives them the freedom to explore their faith without rush. As the sun sets on the horizon, Dennis's words resonate in the air, reminding everyone that, although they may be at different stages of their spiritual journey, they have found a place where they can belong, laugh, and perhaps one day, also believe. The mission of Christian Surfers in Costa Rica continues, seeking to create ties between surfing and faith in an environment where both can coexist, providing hope and purpose to those daring enough to join the conversation.