From: St.
John’s Lutheran Church
505 S. Park Rd.
La Grange, IL 60525
708-354-1690
Contact Person: Nichole Connor, ex. 244
Local
Minister Goes the Distance
Pastor Bill Geis of St. John’s Lutheran Church, 505 S. Park Rd. in La
Grange Illinois is embarking on a 650 mile bike ride through five major
cities in the Great Lakes region, including Milwaukee, Chicago, Gary,
Detroit and Cleveland. The purpose of this endeavor is to heighten
awareness among suburban churches as to the ministry needs in urban
areas. Statistics show that “over the past thirty years, Lutheran
churches have seen a 95% decline in membership, resulting in the closure
of many congregations. Other Christian denominations have witnessed
similar decline.” Geis says.
On his bike
tour, called “Go-the-Distance,” which began on July 11th and will
continue through July 18th, Pastor Geis will visit churches in these
Great Lakes cities who are reaching out to meet the physical, emotional
and spiritual needs of those who live in their communities. He will also
visit suburban congregations who are helping support those urban
ministries.
The
“Go-the-Distance” bike tour is part of a year-long stewardship campaign
launched at St. John’s Lutheran Church this summer. Its purpose is to
cultivate physical, financial and spiritual health and wellness for the
purpose of growing a vibrant ministry. Its seven areas of focus include
prayer, new small group ministries, diet and exercise goals, raising
money for current and future ministries, and embracing new opportunities
for outreach, including the city of Chicago. To learn more about St.
John’s, “Go-the-Distance” and even follow Pastor Geis’ bike tour, visit
www.SJLaGrange.com/GTD.
