The Dublin Marathon has long been an opportunity for those of good heart (and legs) to raise funds for all manner of good causes. This year, Fr Barry White, semi-regular contributor to The Irish Catholic, joined thousands racing the rain-soaked streets of the capital, raising €4,500 for the Vincentian Lay Missionaries (VLM), who support education, healthcare and social projects across Africa.
“It was kind of a miserable day in Dublin, spitting rain,” he said. “My hamstring was at me and there were a few blisters, but the atmosphere was brilliant. People cheering us on all the way.”
Fr White first travelled to Ethiopia with the VLM in 2018 at the encouragement of Fr Michael McCullagh CM, the organisation’s founder. “They do great work out there – schools, healthcare, social outreach – it’s a great cause,” he says.
For him, the road mirrors the spiritual journey itself. “There’s a phrase: the first half of a marathon you’re running with your feet, the next part with your mind, and the last part is pure tears and grace,” he says.
