Rome Half Marathon VIA PACIS

Seven RSCJs in Rome from the communities of probation, the Villa Lante, and the Mother House participated in “Rome Half Marathon VIA PACIS” on 17th September 2017.  

Around 6,000 runners from 43 countries participated in this event promoted by the City of Rome and by the Pontifical Council for Culture. Our group joined the 5-km non-competitive race category.

According to the organizers, the Half Marathon aims to unite all communities; people of good will; those who say no to violence, no to racism, no discrimination of any kind and origin, and who believe in the beauty of life, integration, solidarity and sharing. 

This launches a strong message of peace and hope in the world, favoring the dialogue between cultures and different religions. Thus, the route of this half marathon included passing through important places of religious worship in the city: St. Peter’s Basilica, Mosque, Synagogue, Waldensian Church, and Orthodox Church.

Florence de la Villéon rscj who works in the Migrants Project of the International Union Superiors General (UISG) invited us to join this half marathon in solidarity with South Sudan, expressing particularly our concern for the education of children in South Sudan.  

There were RSCJs who did not run; but they joined this event by cheering for all the participants. We were all very happy to be part of this wonderful event in Rome that brought a strong message of peace.   

The event ended at noontime with the greeting of the Pope Francis during the Angelus at St. Peter’s Square.