Sister runs marathon for charity

Sister Stephanie Baliga, a Franciscan nun from Chicago, has participated in the Chicago marathon every year since 2010 to raise money for her religious order. The Mission Notre-Dame des Anges, which she represents, runs a food bank and other social programs in a low-income area of the city.

Mission supports the community

The Mission Notre-Dame des Anges provides monthly food assistance to between 3,000 and 4,000 families and offers additional support through various social programs. Sister Stephanie has helped raise over $3.2 million through her marathon participation, which is the main fundraising event for her community.

Running as spiritual practice

Sister Stephanie believes that running is a space for spiritual growth and personal development. She sees physical exercise as a way to cultivate virtues like discipline, perseverance, and humility, and she views running as a way to pray and prepare for suffering in union with the Mass.

Sister’s background in sports

Before joining the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist in 2010, Sister Stephanie was a top sprinter at the University of Illinois. An injury led her to pursue a religious life, and now she teaches at a local primary school, focusing on religious education and sacramental support for students.

Advice for aspiring runners

Sister Stephanie encourages those starting to run to be patient and consistent, comparing physical and spiritual growth. She believes that every run, prayer, and act of devotion contributes to spiritual development and that combining sport with prayer can strengthen one’s relationship with God.