A worldwide network of thousands of churches, including DeKalb First Lutheran Church, located at the corner of Pine and Third streets, will join together Saturday for “40 Days of Purpose.”

The campaign is based on the study of the book “The Purpose-Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For?” by Rick Warren, a senior pastor of the Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif.

Senior pastor of the DeKalb First Lutheran, the Rev. Marilyn Hanson, said she is excited about the impact on her church and community.

“We’re planning big, with 35 groups in homes and at other facilities at times that will accommodate anyone’s schedule and life.” Hanson said. “Our planning team is convinced that this six-week study will enrich and deepen the spiritual lives of all who participate.”

Hanson said she became interested in the book because it had been on the best-seller list for so long.

“I thought if everyone is reading the book, we ought to try to capitalize on that, get people together in small groups and talk about life and faith,” Hanson said.

Already, almost 13,000 churches from 60 denominations have read the book, Hanson said. It has sold more than 16 million copies since its release in 2002.

“People of all ages will hear about God’s purposes for their lives in many different formats,” Hanson said. “This will allow for the truths to sink deeper into hearts, which is essential for any permanent life change.”

During the “40 Days of Purpose,” the truths about God’s five purposes for people – worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry and evangelism – will be communicated repeatedly, Hanson said.

For more information, contact the church office at 758-0643, or send e-mails to [email protected].