'Cross Training.' The sisters stretch their muscles prior to a run.
Many of us of a certain age can remember the delightful 1967-1970 TV series, The Flying Nun starring actress Sally Fields. But have you ever heard of the running Nuns? Nuns that run out in the desert?
This is no new TV series. Its better because its real. Sisters belonging to the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration are faithfully running towards their goals. The sisters are raising funds to complete construction of Our Lady of Solitude Monastery in Tonopah, Arizona. Tonopah is a small community approximately 50 miles west of downtown Phoenix.
The sisters are a cloistered community but don't have a cloister. The monastery provides that and will also be a retreat for priests.The diocese of Phoenix has never had a Contemplative Order of Nuns prior to the Poor Clares arrival. These are tough pioneer Nuns with the big hearts and smiles to prove it!
The ever joyous Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration.
. . . and they're off! Watch out roadrunners! Beep, beep.
To raise funds for the monastery, the sisters are having their First Annual Nun Run on Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 8am at the Victory Lane Sports Park in Glendale, AZ. It costs $30 (prior to race day) to participate in the 10k (6.21 miles) and 5K Run/Walk (3.11 miles) event. On race day itself, registration will be $35.
The weather forecast for Saturday is predicted to be perfect for running, walking, and having fun. So please put on your track shoes and join the sisters for this wonderful event.
If you're unable to participate directly, you can shadow participate, sponsor someone who is running, become a race donor, or volunteer. More information will be at the link below.
Throughout history and among many different traditions, the deserts of the world have called contemplative individuals and groups to prayer and meditation. The desert is always beautiful and sometimes harsh, stripping away everything that is non-essential. Its a place of silence and its in silence that God speaks to us. Its no wonder the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration are building their chapel and monastery here.
The Poor Clare's presence in the greater community benefits all of us. The joy, love, and deep faith of the sisters uplifts us all and challenges each of us to 'run' as they do towards our spiritual goals.
Who knows what this First Annual Nun Run will lead to? This may be the first baby step towards Nun Olympics! Just imagine a 4-Nun bobsled team, Nun ski-jumping, a Nun relay race, and Nun gymnastics. With their 'habits,' pole-vaulting may prove a little difficult though!
Godspeed sisters. St. Francis and St. Clare are proud of you.
Peace to all
The sisters need our help. For more information go to their terrific website at: www.desertnuns.com/
Comments
I absolutely love this story and the Flying Nun. Had the record and sang all the songs. Hope these running nuns, fly like the wind to success.
Wish I was living back in Phoenix. I'd love to run with them!
Thank you for your comments. I've been in touch with one of the sisters and they are all so excited about the Nun Run. Lets pray for their continued success.
Thanks so much for the Nun Run coverage. You did a great job in helping these good nuns!
I hope they will raise enough money to continue in their efforts to complete their mission of completing their monastery.
Wish we had them up here in Washington State.
Thank you again for the article and "fly high" Sisters!
Thank you for your kind words Rebecca :)
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