Gregory Dickow's bio
Pastor Gregory Dickow, founder of the Chicago-based Life Changers International Church, is the popular host of The Power to Change Today—an international television ministry that reaches 625 million households weekly. The 42-year-old father of five also hosts Ask The Pastor—a highly-rated live radio and Internet program heard five days weekly, which gives callers the chance to obtain practical answers to everyday problems. A master of this live exchange format, the Pastor interacts with callers in a most personal way, challenging them to experience spiritual growth and thereby empower themselves to become successful in every area of their lives.
A native of Detroit, Michigan, Gregory Dickow was "born again" at age seventeen after attending a Bible study, a pivotal experience which ended the chaotic period of his youth. His spiritual journey continued at Western Michigan University, where he immersed himself in God's word and created an on-campus church. He later spent summers on the mission fields of Asia, sharing his faith, building churches, and training young men and women in Christian leadership.
Pastor Dickow and his wife, Grace, founded Life Changers International Church in 1993. From its modest start in the gymnasium of an elementary school in Elk Grove, Illinois, the non-denominational church grew rapidly and attracted a dynamic, ethnically-diverse congregation. The Pastor's unique vision led to the continued expansion of the church and to a spiritual renaissance that would eventually embrace the needs of thousands in the Chicagoland area.
In the fall of 2004, Gregory Dickow Ministries realized one of its dreams, opening its new world headquarters in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, a 160,000 square-foot facility located on 30 acres, incorporating a 3,000 seat sanctuary, a 400 seat World Prayer Center, a 1,000 seat multipurpose gymnasium, a leadership training center, and a fully-equipped radio and TV studio.
The $30 million campus also houses the Valeo Academy, a dynamic day school from kindergarten through twelfth grade. With Grace Dickow as Principal, the school focuses on an individualized approach to a classic curriculum, educating the next generation to walk in the character and power of God.
Gregory and Grace Dickow consider their five children the greatest reward of their lives.
Originally published August 17, 2009.
