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ALBANY, GA. -- A cyclist from Chicago is circling the nation with faith that his efforts will bring water to people in Africa.

On Wednesday, Jose Merlos and his bike made a stop in Albany. He’s traveled more than 68,000 miles and says each step was made by faith.

A year ago, Merlos started reading the Bible and it changed life. Now he's using his passion to change the lives of others.

“If I’m going to do something that I enjoy, which is riding my bicycle, and if I’m going to be in different states I would like people to consider my efforts to provide clean water to people in Africa,” said Cyclist Jose Merlos.

Without any sponsors, he saddled up his bike and struck out on the road. The man on wheels started in the east and worked his way westward.

“I'm going to try to touch the four corners. Washington, Maine, Florida, California and then I have to go through the middle,” said Jose Merlos.

His goal is to carry his message through 48 states. During each stop he reaches out to a church and speaks to the congregation about his spiritual journey.

While in Albany, he addressed the crowd at the First United Methodist Church on Flint Avenue.

For the trip Jose brought along his tent and his computer but he says the most important tool is his Bible because it's opened so many doors along the way.

Like when he happened to meet Bill Waller, a fellow cyclist who's allowing Merlos to stay in his home during his stop in Albany.

“Jose shows a lot of determination and heart and he's an inspiration to us,” said cyclist Bill Waller.

In order to complete the well in Africa, Jose has to raise $15,000 dollars, but with only $1,000 dollars to account for, he says he has many miles to go.

Jose has raised money for the well through his website which he encourages people to visit and support.

Anyone wanting to shorten Jose’s trip by helping the funds grow faster can follow the link to his website.