Jan 14-15 – Patriot Mobile was honored to host a screening of the film AVERAGE JOE, based on the true story of Joe Kennedy, a football coach who risked everything to uphold his right to pray. This inspiring film chronicles Coach Kennedy’s journey of faith, resilience, and justice. Coach Kennedy graciously joined us for the evening and hosted a Q&A at the end of the screening.
Coach Kennedy, a Marine veteran and high school football coach, began quietly praying after games, thanking God for the opportunity to coach his students. In 2015, his school district suspended him for refusing to stop, prompting a nearly decade-long legal battle. “I just couldn’t understand why something so simple as a 15-second prayer in public was so detrimental to people,” said Kennedy.
Watch AVERAGE JOE on Amazon Prime.
In 2022, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in his favor, affirming his prayers were protected under the First Amendment’s Free Exercise and Free Speech clauses. This landmark decision overturned decades of precedent, strengthening protections for religious expression nationwide. “This was God working behind the scenes with just one idiot, one average shmuck, taking any obedience, and doing what was right… which changed the outcome of the entire nation,” he said.
As America’s only Christian conservative wireless provider, Patriot Mobile proudly supports First Liberty Institute, the nation’s largest legal organization dedicated to defending religious liberty. First Liberty’s advocacy was instrumental in Coach Kennedy’s victory, which stands as a powerful reminder that our Constitution safeguards our right to live out our faith freely.
This film not only has a powerful message but is also incredibly moving. The audience was laughing along with Joe in the movie and crying during the more heartfelt moments. Such a well-done Christian movie, AVERAGE JOE beautifully balances humor and inspiration while delivering a profound message about faith and courage.
Patriot Mobile’s Chief Marketing Officer, Scott Coburn, also joined the event, offering a heartfelt prayer over Coach Kennedy and encouraging attendees to embrace boldness in their faith. “I hope what you will see in this story is that you’ll be encouraged in your own walk—to be more bold, to be lions, not sheep,” said Coburn.
In addition to the film screening, Patriot Mobile facilitated an opportunity for Coach Kennedy to connect with a local Christian school. There, he shared his moving testimony, inspiring students to follow God’s will and stand firm in their faith. “It’s amazing what God could do, going from somebody who was unwanted and just the most troubled person in the world, and turn that into something incredible,” he said. Students were captivated by his story of perseverance and encouraged to remain steadfast in their beliefs, no matter the opposition.
Coach Kennedy’s story exemplifies the impact one individual can have when you trust in God and act with courage.
We encourage you to watch AVERAGE JOE with your friends and family on Amazon Prime. Be inspired by this moving retelling of an incredible true story and take a stand for faith and freedom in your life.
If you’d like Coach Joe Kennedy to share his testimony at your church, school, or event, visit his website for more information.
