SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Jerry James took a right to the chops for Jesus the other night.
Clad in sweats, boxing gloves and headgear, the former standout amateur boxer stood inside the ropes during the homily Saturday night at New Life Church in Sioux Falls.
The church bulletin referred to it as "Saturday Night Slam." But Pastor Alex Klimchuk’s intent in turning his altar into a boxing ring was more enticement than entertainment. "We try to reach out to those who aren’t already going, who think church is boring," says Klimchuk, 30. "The truth is, the church is having problems getting young men inside them. So we ask, ‘What will reach the guys?’ This seems like a perfect answer."