Mission

As faith-based designers, our mission is to create more than just games. We craft tools designed to empower players of all ages to build relationships, disciple one another, and to create opportunities to joyfully share the Good News.

Vision

To equip the next generation of Christian leaders and creators, preparing them for a future of purpose and mission through the cultivation of skills in design, fellowship, and ministry through tabletop gaming.

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Founder’s Story

Matthew Penna, Founder/Dad

For over 20 years, my creative journey has been fueled by two things: family and a love for tabletop games. Growing up, board games were the constant that brought people together, no matter where life took me or how poor we were. They were a source of boundless creativity, a tradition that began with brokedown-piece-missing boargames to pen-and-paper adventures that grew into a lifelong passion.

That passion became a family affair over 12 years ago. One of our first creations, a trick-taking card game, was designed in a Walmart parkinglot with my daughter while waiting for my wife to return with groceries. It has since been playtested with countless friends and our most important team: our nieces and nephews, the “Wild Meeples.”

My professional pursuit led me to become a playtester and reviewer for award-winning indie designers, but my personal mission was reshaped by my faith. A moment of clarity called me away from creating fantasy allegories and toward designing a game where Christ was the fulcrum of the entire experience. This was the genesis of BORN a Christian roleplaying game.

Lightwork Games is the culmination of that journey in uniting family, faith, and a deep love for creating games that build community and invite players to explore the greatest story ever told.

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Meet the Team