Hello, my name is James Becker. I am a senior in Communication and Psychology at the University of Illinois. Next year I will work as a FOCUS missionary. In addition to academia and service, I participate in the sport of triathlons. I have competed in various races at various distances, from the sprint race to the Ironman. I must admit, of the three sports, biking is my weakness. I realize that this endeavor will be challenging, but to save the life of an innocent child, it is worth every mile.

Pope John Paul II proclaimed during World Youth Day, “Woe to you if you do not succeed in defending life.” Pope John Paul the Great saw something in our generation. He did not suggest for us to settle or to lose hope. He pushed for excellence and proclaimed the expectation. We cannot settle; we cannot conform to these injustices. We must rise up; we must come together as children of God and promote the culture of life!

These 600 miles will be a challenge, but it is worth every inch of every mile. Our ultimate goal is to spread the message of hope and life. In addition, we hope to raise awareness and provide for organizations that currently work to fight these injustices within our culture and society.

Each and every mile will be a testament of will, with a purpose. Throughout our journey, we will bike to save souls. We bike as St. Paul writes in Corinthians “to win.” We do not bike “aimlessly; …but pommel [our] bodies and subdue [them]…” (1 Cor 9:26). We strive to achieve excellence by fighting the good fight, finishing the race, keeping the faith, and promoting LIFE (2 Timothy 4:6). Our generation will be the generation to transform the hearts of many. We will be the one’s to transform the Culture of Death into the Culture of LIFE.

We are hopeful. For we know that God will provide; however, in order for us to reap the benefit we must pay the dues. Always remember, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing” Edmund Burke. Additionally, please keep in mind that “right judgment” is not only about knowing good, but also about doing good. Please support us in our mission and “be the change you wish to see in the world” – Gandhi