Bears leader to speak at Glen Ellyn Christ Church
Chicago Bears fans can show support for a struggling Glen Ellyn church this afternoon by coming out to meet a member of their favorite football franchise.
Pat McCaskey, Bears board member and grandson of team founder George Halas, is scheduled to talk about football and faith during a 4 p.m. presentation at Christ Church, 625 Hillside Ave.
Church leaders are hopeful McCaskey's appearance will draw community support during a time when the congregation is trying to keep its current home.
Christ Church is several months behind on its payments to building owner Believers Stewardship Services, a not-for-profit based in Dubuque, Iowa.
Now a local Montessori school may buy the property within the week, which would force Christ Church's congregation to either find a new home or cease to exist.
Christ Church's Pastor Saul Ebema said he's excited about the special guest.
"This is a chance for the community to come, speak to us, speak to our members, connect with us and struggle with us to preserve this church," Ebema said.
Carl Cepuran, who lives next door to the church, is friends with McCaskey and helped arrange the event.
"I just think it's a unique and kind of laid-back, fun event that should appeal to young athletes from grade school ages on up to adults, really," he said. "Anybody who's played sports could probably relate to the topic in some way."
Instead of asking area residents to come to the church, Cepuran said, it's better to host an event.
"It's not quite all sports, and it's not quite all religion," he said. "It's a little of both."
In addition to hearing McCaskey speak, people who attend can ask questions and mingle afterward.
"Hopefully, the community will be encouraged to visit the church and enjoy the event," Cepuran said.
If you go…
What: Pat McCaskey, Chicago Bears board member, talks about faith and football
When: 4 to 5 p.m. today
Where: Christ Church, 625 Hillside Ave. in Glen Ellyn
Cost: Free
For more information: Visit www.christchurchinglenellyn.org.