Some of the 212 runners in the Nepal race. The popular event was organized by Gospel for Asia–supported missionaries serving in this area. |
Christians in Southeast Nepal must have been thinking about the Apostle Paul and his encouragement from 1 Corinthians to “Run the race in such a way as to get the prize” when they banded together for a race in September.
The runners—212 in all—came from 110 churches, representing 10 different Christian denominations in one district of Nepal. The event was organized by Gospel for Asia–supported missionaries working in that area, who worked with the local sports district council. There were several churches involved, as well as the local chapter of the Nepali Red Cross.
The race kicked off at 9 a.m. Some runners ran 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), while others ran 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The local residents lined both sides of the road to cheer the runners on. The citizens also organized seven rest stops along the way and provided water for the runners.
Like all races, this one ended with an awards ceremony. The missionaries also gave New Testaments to the nine people from the sports district council who helped that day.
The leader of the sports council expressed joyful surprise and thanked the Christians for organizing the community-wide event.
Spectators lined the race route and cheered on the runners. Here they are encouraging runners at the finish line. |
“We can now see that Christians are not just focused on the people in their own flocks, but are interested in contributing to the development of the country and the community through sports,” the director said.
He encouraged them to continue organizing these types of community events, and challenged them to consider a nationwide marathon for all the citizens of Nepal.
Organizers say the event brought the Church closer to the community it is serving, and they are praying about more events like it in the future.