RALEIGH, N.C. — Close to 400 runners and walkers turned out on May 31 for St. Francis of Assisi Church’s Third Annual 5K Run for Peace and Fun Run here to benefit the David J. McBriar, OFM, Chair for Justice and Peace Endowment Fund.
The fund was established in 2008, the year of David’s 50th jubilee marking his profession of vows. The fund was started in appreciation of his gifts of teaching, service and advocacy to the church and the community, and to support his commitment to peace and justice.
The 5K began on the church grounds, wound through neighborhoods, and ended back on the St. Francis campus.
Among those participating were pastor Mark Reamer, OFM, David, Julian Jagudilla, OFM, and Antoine Carlioz, priest in residence.
Lending a hand with the many volunteers, as well as providing an opportunity to be welcomed to the parish community, was Frank Critch, OFM,, a student friar.
Runners gathered for an invocation by Mark that included the Prayer of St. Francis. David later recalled his participation in the race during the Pentecost liturgies, especially noting how he was cheered on and encouraged throughout the race.
He challenged parishioners to be cheerleaders for those who lack support and to become “instruments of peace.”
The photo above shows Mark. The photo “behind” shows Julian and David crossing the finish line.
— Marc Kielty is coordinator of communications at St. Francis of Assisi Church.