More Than Martial Arts

Circuit and Viper earn their Green Belt in TKD

How One Family Found Strength, Faith & Friendship at Combat Ministries Sometimes, the greatest catalysts for change in our lives come from the places we least expect it. The most unassuming things can be just what we need to shape us into the best versions of ourselves. Having the right people around you can bring out the leader, the teacher, the servant, the friend you never knew you could be. That's what the Mejeur family has seen from their kids since joining Combat Ministries roughly 6 years ago.

In their time here, the kids have developed into more than their parents could have anticipated. The training and personal mentoring here invests in the whole person, not just specific skills. This place builds character and skills, but the relationships are what are most valuable. We have seen friendships forged that can survive anything life throws at them. The Mejeurs have become part of our family, and they want to share their story to inspire others to see what makes Combat Ministries so special.

Learning More Than Just Technique

Ryan and Jon began their journey in the beginner Taekwondo class and Little Warriors program. As soon as he turned three, their younger brother Michael joined the Little Warriors as well, eagerly following in his older brothers' footsteps. Their sister, Lissa, found her place in Combat Ministries' homeschool art classes, building skills and friendships of her own.

The most powerful changes happened outside the structured classes.

“Our boys have literally and figuratively grown up as a part of the dojo,” their mother explains. “They’ve learned the disciplines of martial arts, but they’ve also learned how to lead and teach. I see a different side of them when they put on those belts and step in front of other students.”

Eventually, Ryan and Jon were eager for a new challenge. In early 2024, they shifted their focus to Judo. While their martial arts skills continued to grow, so did their faith. The coaches here mentor the students through the lens of the Bible, guiding their morals and ethics as much as their faith in Jesus. Spiritual strength is as vital in life as physical and mental strength. Russ and Anne have seen their kids thrive from it.

“We’ve made friends through the programs and been able to learn about God,” the boys say.

Finding Community in Unexpected Places

Combat Ministries' impact extends far beyond martial arts. Their family's church, Catalyst Church, often holds weekend camps at the dojo, blending faith and fellowship in amazing ways. Anne Mejeur has also stepped into a new role, serving on the hospitality team during evening classes. It’s nice to have a warm smile and the voice of experience at the door to greet new guests the same way she was once welcomed into our ranks.

“The love shown to our kids and us as parents fills my heart every time we walk in the doors,” Anne says. “The mentors here truly want to support our kids, see them grow in their Christian faith, and become better people. I couldn’t ask for better people to surround and love on my children.”

For Ryan and Jon, what started as a simple extra-curricular activity encouraged by their parents became not just a hobby, but a passion, and a part of their identity.

“At first we stayed because our parents made us,” they admit. “But over the years, besides the fun we have in class, we’ve built friendships and positive relationships with other kids and the coaches.” That’s why they keep coming back.

A Future Built on Faith and Friendship

Combat Ministries will continue to change lives in Anderson and beyond. The community we have built here isn’t just made up of families, we are a family. The Mejeur’s plan to be with us every step of the way.

“I hope Combat Ministries keeps pouring into the community like they’re doing today,” Anne says. “Michael is only five, so we have many years ahead of us in the martial arts program. We’ve made so many friends and built relationships that I hope we never lose.”

For their family, Combat Ministries has become more than a place to train—it’s a place where they’ve found people who celebrate their victories, pray with them in hard times, and pour love into their lives at every turn.

We are committed to investing the same effort into real relationships with everyone who comes through our doors. Everyone matters. Every story matters. Come tell us yours, and we can learn our way through life together!

Written by Eric Farrell of TheWordKitchen.com