By Adolf Washington

Bengaluru: More than 1,000 people have registered for the “Salvation Run” in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru on April 8.

Archbishop Bernard Moras of Bangalore will flag off the run from St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral Church in Frazer town. The prelate will be joined by other Christian leaders and well-known sports celebrities, the organizers claimed.

The sporting event is meant for Christians of all denominations in Bengaluru, capital of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It comprises 5-km run and 3-km walk and aims to help people discipline themselves with a healthy lifestyle and a purposeful living, the organizers said in a press release on April 5.

Archbishop Moras
The run is the brainchild of Elvis Joseph, a former state athlete and sports management professional. He wants leaders of all denominations to endorse and engage in a faith-motivated sports and healthy lifestyle. This in turn will create “a thrill of competition, the sense of community and fellowship,” he says.

Sports activities help people express their emotions and foster integrity, character and values in them. People will understand and respect one another and protect environment. A sporting culture brings hope to children, youth and the community at large, the press release said.

The participants will sport a blue t-shirt marked “I belong to Christ.” They will receive a medal and certificate of participation.

The organizers said other Indian cities too will organize similar programs annually.