How Video Games Saved These Young Men’s Faith | Heroic Hotline | Alex Pacheco
40m

How do you reach a generation that won’t talk in person—but opens up online? In this episode of Heroic Hotline, meet Alex Pacheco—aka The Catholic Gamer—who turned Fortnite matches with his kids into a thriving digital faith community. What began as bonding time during the pandemic quickly evolved into a Discord-based mission field where young men felt safe to share struggles, seek advice, and explore faith.

Discover how video games—often blamed for isolation—became a gateway to real connection, emotional growth, and spiritual breakthroughs. Alex shares how Gen Z and Alpha, more fluent in digital dialogue than face-to-face conversation, find healing and identity in online squads. Through voice chat and gameplay, young men opened up about anxiety, loneliness, and purpose—topics they’d never touch in a classroom or church basement.

This isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a challenge: What if the Church entered the battlefield where boys already are? Alex’s work through Intercession Gaming combines digital catechesis, mentorship, and esports into a living ministry—proving that even battle royales can lead to the Cross.

Alex Pacheco's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UC-BvsojU1J-HxJlCqCHmaWw 

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TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Welcome Alex the Catholic Gamer
1:08 – Gaming started with my kids
2:26 – Built a Discord community
3:31 – Randoms became real friends
5:06 – Gen Z talks online
7:01 – Classroom silence vs. Discord
9:43 – Moderators make safe spaces
13:04 – Voice chat builds empathy
16:00 – Christ calls us to heroism
20:28 – Daily Gospel Fortnite challenges
25:03 – Loss teaches more than wins
36:00 – Conflict creates growth opportunities

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