Roberto Firmino, a former striker for Liverpool, has announced his 32-year-old ordination as an evangelical pastor, embracing a new calling.
The Brazilian football player announced the news on social media, disclosing a big change in his personal circumstances.
Firmino and his spouse received their pastoral ordination at the church they established three years prior. The dedication ceremony took place last Sunday in his hometown of Maceio.
Firmino said in a moving sermon that his calling to become a pastor was a mission that came about as a result of his experience with Christ rather than an initial goal.
“Since our encounter with Christ, a longing burns in our hearts… that people may know this love that has reached us. Now we have another responsibility… To be pastors according to the heart of God and to cooperate with the Kingdom,” Firmino stated.
Additionally, he expressed his appreciation to Pastors Jairo and Keila for their support and faith in his spiritual development.
From 2015 to 2023, Firmino had an illustrious career at Liverpool, winning seven major championships, including the UEFA Champions League in 2018–19 and the Premier League in 2019–2020.
One of his standout moments was scoring the decisive goal in the 2019 Club World Cup final, securing the title for the Reds.
Last season, Firmino played 34 games for Al-Ahli, scoring nine goals. He also represented the Brazilian national team, participating in the 2018 World Cup.
Roberto Firmino is currently playing football for Al-Ahli, a Saudi Arabian team. Last season, he participated in 34 games across all competitions, recording nine goals and seven assists.