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"I like giving Him the praise and glory beforehand 'cause He's there when you strike out as well as when you hit a home run."

Juan Pierre, All-Star center fielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers, was the recipient of the first-ever Champions of Faith Award during an awards reception and benefit event last week in Chicago. Hosted by Chicago Bears co-owner Patrick McCaskey, the award was presented to Pierre before distinguished guests, including the Archbishop of Chicago, Cardinal Francis George and Bears owner Virginia McCaskey. The Champions of Faith event served to kick-off the spring release of the groundbreaking film of the same name.

Pierre was chosen to receive the Champions of Faith Award because of his outstanding example of virtue both on and off the field. A lifelong Catholic, the 29-year-old Pierre was raised by a father and mother fortified by their Christian faith. While playing for the Florida Marlins earlier in his career, he attended Mass regularly with his manager, Jack McKeon, who is also featured in the Champions of Faith film. Before every at-bat, Pierre says a short prayer and makes the sign of the cross.

"When I go up to the plate I just thank God for giving me a chance to have this at-bat, to go out here and play whether it's good or bad. I might strike out at-bat or whatever, but I like giving Him the praise and glory beforehand 'cause He's there when you strike out as well as when you hit a home run," Pierre explains.

Pierre is also featured in the Champions of Faith film, which is being produced with the cooperation of Major League Baseball Productions and will feature the music of legendary recording artist Bob Dylan. Champions of Faith: Baseball Edition explores the intersection of sports and faith by profiling some of the most accomplished and devout figures in the game, both on and off the field. Other baseball stars featured include Mike Piazza of the Oakland A's, Mike Sweeney of the Kansas City Royals, Jeff Suppan and David Eckstein of the World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals, and many more.

Champions of Faith: Baseball Edition is scheduled for release in April 2007, in conjunction with the start of the 2007 Major League Baseball season.

To view a trailer of the film, click on the link below.

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