By Joseph Myers • Posted May 20, 2024

Summer is beckoning, encouraging all to be gregarious and grateful. The Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary appreciate the approach of the season and will once again preach the power of community on Saturday, June 1 through their 11th annual Nun Run.

Set for an 8:30 a.m. start, the 5K run/3K walk will benefit Camilla Hall, the sisters’ convent home and health care center, while also helping the sisters to purchase a wheelchair van.

“The day brings people together and creates a great sense of camaraderie,” Sister Melissa Mastrangelo, I.H.M., said. “We all look forward to morale boosters in life, and this will definitely be one for everyone involved.”

One of the masterminds of the gathering, Sister Melissa helped to devise proceedings during her 2013 formation. A lifelong runner, she has since welcomed thousands of participants to Malvern and has witnessed an immense amount of generosity from all involved.

“The donation of money, time, and talent is unmatched,” she beamed. “Everything always works like a well-oiled machine. Simply put, we’re blessed.”

Ahead of this Friday’s deadline, Sister Melissa noted that nearly 200 registrants have decided to enjoy the morning with her and her peers. Covering the campus of Immaculata University and the sisters’ mother house, including a brush with the grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the walk/run combination will have an added perk in that the nuns will receive a matching donation if they can generate $35,000. Funds raised will cover the cost of the wheelchair van, helping all in need as they continue their call to follow Jesus Christ and serve His mother.

“It’s always a fun event with every attendee in mind,” Sister Melissa stated of the Chester County-situated celebration that will include fun for children and an appearance by a disc jockey.

The former element will be of special interest to her, given the imminent conclusion of her third year as principal at South Philadelphia’s Saint Monica School. No matter one’s age or involvement, she promises that personal victories will abound, and that God will touch every effort.

“Our committee has been doing a wonderful job,” Sister Melissa, who will fire the starter pistol to set feet in motion, gushed of the nuns and lay individuals who have worked hard to help everyone “sprint in the spirit,” as the day’s flyer states.

To provide additional support, Good Day Philadelphia’s Bob Kelly will appear at Camilla Hall on Tuesday, continuing his promotion of the late-spring opportunity to help those who have devoted themselves to transforming lives.

“We’re always thankful for whatever notice we can receive, and we love how so many people wish us well every year,” Sister Melissa said. “Register, if you can, to walk or run with us. Even if you can’t, stop by. We’d love to meet you.”

For further information, visit https://www.ihmnunrun.org/.