Pastor and diehard Lions fan seeks to make amends for 'failed prophecy'

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. (Christian Examiner) – A pastor and loyal Detroit Lions fan is trying to make up for a bold prediction he made that failed to come true.

Kevin Hester of The Shore Church in St. Joseph, Michigan tweeted on September 3, five days before the Lions 2014 season opening win, 35-14, over the New York Giants, "

"I'm a Preacher, not a prophet, BUT the Lions & Joique Bell will win the Super Bowl this year. Detroit is Back."

Feeling pangs of guilt for being too bold in his claim, Hester is giving away some of his prized Lions' memorabilia "to make amends for his failed prophecy," according to a news release in Christian Newswire. "Items included are sweatshirts, t-shirts, autographs and other Lions items, but the most unique item is an authentic game jersey from Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell's rookie season."

Bell is a native of Benton Harbor, not far from The Shore Church, and a local hero.

Hester said anyone wanting to sign up for an opportunity to win simply needs to send an email to theshorechurch@yahoo.com, or write a note to The Shore Church via FACEBOOK on why "We should forgive the Detroit Lions for not making it to the Super Bowl and why we should have faith that they eventually will win it."

The deadline is February 14th, Valentine's Day.

"We will show our love for the Lions and pick the winner that day," Hester said.