Kyle’s Journey: A Long-Distance Run Bridging Miles and History for the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth
In the surroundings of the Motherhouse campus of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Kentucky, Kyle Hall, a seasoned long-distance runner, finds a sense of purpose and resolve. In the journey of running, he discovered a means to contribute to the world, a desire kindled in him since surviving thyroid cancer in 2002. Now, in 2023, he is embarking on a new quest: Kyle’s Run for the Sisters.
His plan? Nineteen consecutive days of running across six European cities, each stride driven by a deep commitment to raise funds for the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth’s philanthropic endeavors. The marathon commences on July 8 and concludes on July 26, 2023. Each day of his run ties into a significant event from the rich, two-century-old history of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth (SCN), as documented on nazareth.org.
Hall’s itinerary spans continents, from Shanghai to the historic streets of London, through the lush landscapes of Wales, the charm-laden avenues of Paris, the storied shores of Normandy, the Gothic grandeur of Prague, and finally, the Nordic beauty of Copenhagen. Every logistical detail, from airline miles and Disney points to personal savings, has been meticulously strategized. His goal is as clear as his mission is noble: to raise at least $2,888 for the SCN’s programs, outreach, and work.
With each daily run ranging from 18.12 kilometers to 20.23 kilometers, Hall retraces the milestones of the SCN’s journey, from its founding in 1812 to the present day. Each stride he takes honors the Sisters’ past, acknowledging their courageous response to challenges such as the 1832 cholera epidemic and the Civil War. His journey also emphasizes the SCN’s global impact, from their life-altering work in India beginning in 1947, to their efforts in Belize, Nepal, and Botswana, tackling issues from poverty and illiteracy to HIV/AIDS.
Each city on Hall’s running itinerary symbolically connects to the SCN’s historical narrative, making his endeavor much more than a simple fundraising marathon. It is a moving tribute, echoing the SCN’s motto, ‘Caritas Christi Urget Nos –The Love of Christ Impels Us.’
Kyle Hall’s extraordinary initiative is a testament to his resilience and generosity, inspiring countless individuals along his route and across the globe. It’s a story that speaks to the transformative power of compassion, resolve, and a good pair of running shoes. And it’s a story that continues to unfold with each stride he takes, in the steps he traces across history, and in the heartbeats that echo the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth’s enduring legacy.
Good luck Kyle keep up the great running
Thanks so much, Sean!