Canterbury Diocese vicars Revd Melissa Carter and Revd Jo Purle will be running the London Marathon 2025 for charities close to their hearts Image: Diocese of Canterbury
Visually impaired Revd Carter, Team Vicar of Dover Town Benefice, is running for Guide Dogs, an organization that has provided her with independence through guide dogs like Taylor. She finds running a spiritual experience, feeling God’s presence during her runs, and her churches have strongly supported her fundraising efforts.
Revd Purle, Team Vicar of Ashford Town Benefice, is running her first full marathon for JENGA, a Christian charity in Uganda she helps lead. The charity supports local communities through literacy, Alpha courses, and child sponsorships. An experienced runner from a cani-cross club, Purle views the marathon as a “personal pilgrimage” involving prayer and worship. She is inspired by the faith she has witnessed in Uganda.
The Diocese of Canterbury warmly encourages public support for both vicars as they undertake this significant physical and spiritual challenge.
Donations can be made to their fundraising pages: