Indiana parishes raise NCYC funds with first Color Fun Run

The youth ministry team from St. Bernard of Clairvaux and St. Thomas More Parishes in Indiana hosted a colorful “kickoff” event Aug. 22, drawing 100 runners and walkers to the Chosen Color Fun Run that organizers hope will be an annual event.

“It was nice to start out with something fun,” said Stephanie Cribbs, member of the Chosen Youth Ministry Leadership Team and co-chair of the event. “This is a new ministry for both parishes. Our youth group has really grown.”

Participants, dressed in white shirts, and volunteers were armed with packets of color powder to be tossed throughout the race, held at the White Township Recreation Complex. 

While the run was not competitive, organizers did invite other parishes to participate in a “youth group challenge,” which they’d like to expand on next year.

Also participating were Capuchin Father Richard N. Owens, pastor of both parishes, and Capuchin Father Tage Danielson, parochial vicar; Deacon Andrew Corriente of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish; and Father Matthew J. Morelli, pastor of Church of the Good Shepherd Parish, Kent.

“It’s fantastic to see priests come and be part of the community, to come and play and pray with us,” Cribbs said.

The event raised over $1,800 for the parishes’ trip to the National Catholic Youth Conference Nov. 17-20 in Indianapolis, Ind. Seventeen people, including several chaperones, plan to make the pilgrimage.