Christ on the PGA Tour (1965-1982) – A Faith-Focused Golf Memoir

Christ on the PGA Tour (1965-1982) is more than a historical account; it is the only book that traces the Christian movement that took root in American professional golf. It begins in 1965, when a handful of players started the PGA Tour Bible Study, a weekly gathering that grew into a private fellowship shaping routines, friendships, and conversations on tour. The author, Kermit Zarley, draws on decades of firsthand experience to share revealing anecdotes, candid reflections, and the atmosphere of a changing game. The narrative also nods to contemporary connections within the sport, including Scottie Scheffler, whose leadership and peers’ respect echo an ongoing tradition of faith within the Tour.

What makes this book engaging is its blend of humor and humility. Expect vivid scenes from locker rooms and travel days, the soft rustle of pages during a late-night study session, and moments of quiet prayer before a round. Zarley weaves these memories into a broader view of how belief and practice can coexist with fierce competition, media scrutiny, and the demands of a demanding schedule. The result is a memoir that reads like a social history of a unique corner of pro golf, accessible to fans and casual readers alike.

Key perspectives you’ll encounter

• The origin of a grassroots fellowship that connected players beyond competition
• Personal anecdotes from peers who balanced ambition with faith
• Insights into weekly prayer, Bible study, and candid conversations about life on tour
• Humor and camaraderie that punctuated long travel days and big tournaments

Readers will discover a thoughtful portrayal of golf culture that goes beyond wins and losses. The book presents possibilities rather than guarantees—showing how shared practice, dialogue, and community can shape routines, influence decisions, and provide a broader sense of meaning amid fame and pressure.

What you will take away

• A richer understanding of golf culture and the people who shape it
• Ideas for daily routines that blend discipline with reflection
• A glimpse into how faith and sport can coexist under pressure
• Inspiration drawn from real-life stories of perseverance and community

Who should read this book?

• Golf fans curious about behind-the-scenes culture
• Sports history readers seeking human-scale moments from the tour
• Readers drawn to faith-inspired perspectives in professional sports