Our Lady of Peace Parish in Cleveland jumped back into running shoes the weekend of May 1-2 for its virtual Run for Peace Fundraiser. The parish has sponsored the event for 15 years except 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down most of the country and forced cancelation of the run.
This year, in order to continue with the fundraiser and keep all participants safe, the event committee decided to have a virtual run. The theme was “Hope for the Future, United in Peace.” Based on the unprecedented response not only here at home, but across the world, the theme became a reality.
Hundreds joined in the event from around the world including the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Nigeria, Tanzania and India, gathering with friends and family as they walked, ran and exercised all in the name of peace. Never in the history of the Run for Peace had people from around the globe come together for the event.
Through the donations of sponsors, the Run for Peace raised more than $16,000 for the parish. The funds are used each year for the parish’s ongoing Catholic high school scholarship fund, continued community outreach and capital improvements.
Going forward, event organizers said the worldwide annual Run For Peace will take place at the parish in person and will continue to attract participation from around the world, bringing hope, peace and unity through the mission of Jesus Christ.
Our Lady of Peace Parish is located at 12601 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland. It was established in 1919. The first pastor, Father James Cummins, was a former World War I infantry chaplain. After experiencing the horrors of war, he decided to dedicate the new parish to Mary, Our Lady of Peace.
The current pastor is Father Gary Chmura.
For more information, visit olpchurch.com or email office@olpchurch.com.