THORSBY — One of the country’s most sought after Christian speakers will visit an area church next Sunday.

David Ring will speak at Pates Chapel Baptist Church on Sunday, March 29 beginning at 6 p.m.

The Jonesboro, Ark. native is perhaps best known for challenging audiences with the thought-provoking phrase, “I have cerebral palsy — What’s your problem?”

“There are a lot of hurting people out there,” church Pastor Clint Harris said. “This man understands that hurt like nobody else.”

Because Ring typically draws large crowds wherever he speaks, the church is opening up both its sanctuary and fellowship hall for seating. Ring will speak in the sanctuary, and a live video feed will be sent to the fellowship hall for viewing there.

Harris said the church will be able to accommodate easily 750 people for the one-night event.

“I’m excited,” he said.

Ring was born with cerebral palsy and was orphaned at an early age. Life seemed worse than hopeless to him until he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior.

As a nationally known speaker since 1973, Ring shares his story with more than 100,000 people each year at churches, conventions, schools and corporate events. He has been featured on numerous occasions on “The Old Time Gospel Hour” with the Rev. Jerry Falwell, as well as other nationally televised programs.

For more information about Ring, visit www.davidring.org. For more information about the upcoming event, visit www.pateschapel.net or call 646-2827.

The church is located at 190 County Road 295, off County Road 50 near Thorsby.

Admission is free, but a love offering will be taken.