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Deacon Vincent Charles, a deacon from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Isanti, Minnesota, is preparing to participate in the 129th Boston Marathon. Scheduled for April 21, Charles will wear race bib No. 24830 in the 65-69 age category. Beginning at 10:50 a.m., he will start in the third wave of runners. Professional athletes and para-athletes will commence earlier.
Vincent's intent is to integrate his faith into his marathon practice. "While I was running a few weeks ago, something — like the Holy Spirit — told me to do this, to spark in their mind that Christ is important," Vincent shared, indicating his new practice of making the Sign of the Cross when passing cars. He believes this act of expressing God's love will grow in influence.
Vincent's race attire is symbolic, with imagery representing his religious and family connections. "In front I placed pictures of a cross and of my dad and me on a turkey hunt, with the words, ‘I run for my Father,'" he stated. The back of his T-shirt features a statue of Mary in Medjugorje and a picture of his mother with the words, ‘I run for my Mother.' His late sister Sandy and a family friend are memorialized on the sleeves.
During the marathon, Vincent plans to pray for 300 deceased individuals from his parishes over the past decade. He has audio-recorded names, intentions, and prayer routines to facilitate running hands-free. His family, including his wife Karen, daughter Cassie, son Nick, and grandson Jeremy, will support him from Boston and join in the prayers.
Reflecting on the decision to participate, Vincent remarked on his persistence despite physical limitations. This will be his 11th marathon, achieved after meeting a qualifying time of 3:57. While acknowledging the challenge of the race, Vincent focuses on completing it. "My first goal is to finish... with a personal goal of finishing under four hours," he expressed.
Vincent began running marathons in 2013 as a tribute to his father, seeing it as a journey of healing, both emotionally and spiritually. The activity has become a medium for honoring family and religious values.
His approach to the upcoming race on Easter Monday underscores a deeper spiritual intention. "Part of me wants to share that I’m Catholic and evangelize in some way," Vincent said, expressing hope for meaningful spiritual encounters during the event.
Nikki Rajala of The Central Minnesota Catholic magazine contributed this report.
