Run Church

I haven’t gone to a real church service in about 5 years. Not because I have an agenda against the Lord or I’ve suffered some crisis of faith. In fact, I pray about as often as most of my friends who go to church.

I’ve discovered a different way to actively get in touch with my faith. I call it Run Church.

For me, Run Church is an hour or two spent running in nature, often on the remote trail that cuts through my town. It’s when I find a meditative break from the day-to-day. I focus not on my goal time or the distance I need to cover, but on thoughts and emotions.

Run Church is my confessional. I talk out loud to God, wondering why things are the way they are, trying to find clarity for how I should handle a problem at home, at work, or with friends.

What I love most about Run Church is the freedom. When I’m out there with the limestone, trees, and creeks, I’m unencumbered. I don’t have to dress up or sit quietly (two of my least favorite things). I don’t have to worry about my kids behaving or wonder how they’re doing in the children’s room (when they come with me, we can be as loud as we want together).

And I certainly don’t have to damage the eardrums of my pew-mates with my singing voice – though I have been known to belt out a tune or two on the trail when no one else is within earshot.

I’m not dissing organized religion – in fact, I want to find a church to take my kids to so they can make up their own minds about how to worship. I respect that what works for me will not work for everyone.

Run Church is when I can laugh, cry, or simply breathe with the Lord while being active and enjoying the world that we’re entrusted with. Nature is a focal point of many religions. Jesus went to the garden to pray. Ancient people worshiped gods of wind, fire, and water. I go to Run Church.