CRUSADE ENDS WITH TESTIMONY

Lowell Lundstrom's Impact America crusade had its grand finale Sunday, the eighth day of songs, sermons and personal testimony that attracted an average of 1,700 people nightly.

The 55-year-old evangelist's topic was "From Country Rock to Christ, Lowell's Life Story."

He told about his interest in the guitar, which led him to sit in with South Dakota bands by age 13. A year later, he was playing rockabilly music on a radio show and making television appearances.

It wasn't long before Lundstrom had his own band and was involved in drinking, cursing and immorality. When he met his wife, Connie, at a dance, she encouraged him to go to church with her.

Although his first experience with church shook Lundstrom's self-confidence, future visits were better. He devoted his life to Jesus Christ and became a minister, happily married with four children.

Grand Ole Opry star Billy Walker also made an appearance Sunday, singing gospel tunes. His story was similar to Lundstrom's, except Walker never left country music. He said the Lord told him to minister to musicians within the industry, and Walker has continued to do so.

In an interview with the Southeast Missourian, Lundstrom said Cape Girardeau residents were exceptional in their commitment to reach out to others.

"Everyone realizes we need a spiritual awakening to stop the tide of violence and crime," he said. "There were over 600 people who came forward to dedicate their lives to God and families who have made new dedications to God in righteousnes~s.

"This will have a great affect for years to come."

Mark McElreath, 31, a chaplain with the Cape Girardeau chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association, agreed. He said God saved him in September 1991 in Potosi Correctional Center, prompting him to turn away from a life of drugs and alcohol.

He said Lundstrom's visit could do the same for many.

"If the man tried to get glory for himself, he wouldn't get too far," McElreath said. "Giving glory to Christ has made this whole crusade what it is."

Robin Bates, a member of the Salvation Army in Cape, said her parents were saved Saturday night. For years she tried to convince them to return to church, but it was to no avail until they saw Lundstrom.

"I would like to see them up in heaven," Bates said. "It's a good feeling to know they are going there."

Lundstrom's next crusade will be in Kalamazoo, Mich., at the end of May.

ATTENDANCE

March 19-March 276

Sunday 1,371

Monday 1,603

Tuesday 1,450

Wednesday 2,564

Thursday 1,215

Friday 1,403

Saturday 1,316

Sunday 2,052

TOTAL 13,074