Cyclist looks to inspire others

SANDPOINT — A Fargo, N.D., high school teacher will have quite a vacation tale to tell his students come September. Paul Shol is cycling 4,500 miles solo from Florence, Ore., to Bar Harbor, Maine, this summer. Along the route, he is giving away copies of "Jesus Calling," an inspirational work by Sarah Young, according to a press release.

“The goal of the trip is to get others excited about the book,” Shol says. “It has a terrific message that has made a big difference in my daily faith life. I think everyone should have a chance to experience the book and its message. If I can make a difference in just a few people's faith lives, then it is a success.”

Shol had already given 300 copies away before putting foot to pedal July 5, and he has raised enough money to purchase an additional 500, the press release said.

As he passes through dozens of cities and towns along his route, he hopes to collect donations for more. Shol says that every penny of donations goes to purchase giveaway books.

"For me, this trip is first about spreading Sarah Young's beautiful message in the 'Jesus Calling' book, and second, it is kind of a faith pilgrimage for me; each day I will be pushed to fully trust and seek God's presence."

Shol is no stranger to fundraising for worthy causes. Last year, he collected $40,000 to benefit the Children's Legacy Foundation in Fargo, N.D., which "is dedicated to assisting local teens succeed in school, build a positive character, and ultimately achieve a high school diploma," according to the release.

The cyclist expects to be passing through Sandpoint on or near July 12. Publishers of "Jesus Calling" will be posting podcasts and blogs detailing Shol's cross-country progress beginning July 18 at www.jesuscalling.com.

Information: pmshol@cord.edu