Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Every year, my mother-in-law Sue organises a carol singing event at Tesco, New Oscott, Sutton Coldfield, and raises significant funds for the Church Army. Unfortunately, with the Covid-19 outbreak, it just isn't possible this year. I was discussing with Sue how we could do something else instead. I suggested to her walking/running the distance that Mary and Jospeh travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem.

After realising it was a long way (!) I thought it was fairer for me to run the equivalent distance from Nazareth to Jerusalem, and Sue is going to complete the distance and walk the last 7 kilometres in her garden, the equivalent distance of Jerusalem to Bethlehem. The distance of 90 miles is understood to be the probable route length. The story goes that Caesar Augustus asked everyone to complete a census, so that's why Mary and Joseph had to go to Bethlehem. The rest is the Christmas story.

I am not a particularly religious person, but I understand how impactful something like the Marylebone Project, supported by the Church Army, can be. My mother in law is a devout woman, so the Biblical meaning behind the distance has particular significance to her in the run up to Christmas. The Marylebone Project supports homeless women, and the work the Church Army does really changes lives. It seems particularly pertinent at this time of year, and given what the year has been like.

Thank you for taking time to read this and supporting Sue and my challenge! I am hoping to start soon so that we complete the distance before Christmas. I am planning on doing a long run every Sunday until Christmas - I will keep you updated with our progress! 

No pressure to give lots, even a small amount can make a difference.

Many thanks, 

Lydia and Sue

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