Apostolic Life in Action: My Experience of the St. Ann Catholic School Annual Walkathon in the Diocese of Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA
By
Fr. Simon Kimaryo, AJ, B.Th., PGDip., BCC
On October 10, 2025, I had the joy of participating in the Annual Walkathon and Family Picnic at St. Ann Catholic School in the Diocese of Allentown. As a priest serving at St. Ann Catholic Church in Emmaus—assisting Msgr. Edward Coyle, Pastor—I was grateful for the invitation to join this special event that unites students, staff, families, and parishioners in a spirit of faith, fellowship, and support for Catholic education.
At the time this article was published, Msgr. Edward Coyle had already retired from Saint Ann Parish and had been succeeded by Fr. Keith Laskowski as Pastor.
Fr. Simon Kimaryo, AJ, Staff, and student participants in the St. Ann Catholic School Annual Walkathon, Allentown Diocese, PA.
The day began with the celebration of Holy Mass for the entire school community. The church was filled with reverence, youthful enthusiasm, and the unmistakable energy of children who know they are loved. In my homily, I reminded the students how precious they are in the eyes of Jesus. In His time, children were often overlooked or considered insignificant, yet Jesus challenged that mindset. He taught His disciples—and teaches us still—that “whoever welcomes a child in my name welcomes me” (Mark 9:36–37).
I encouraged the children to remain humble, honest, and open-hearted, ready to learn from their parents, teachers, and religious leaders so they may grow as loyal friends of Jesus. When a child becomes a friend of Jesus, their heart opens to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, guiding them toward the vocation or career God has prepared for them.
After Mass, the entire school set out on a walk to a nearby park and back. I walked alongside students, teachers, and many parents, inspired by their joy, energy, and unity. The walkathon was more than a fun outing—it was a meaningful fundraiser. The students worked diligently to raise money for school needs such as field trips, family events, clubs, classroom supplies, and improvements to classroom technology. Their parents and parishioners supported them generously, demonstrating the strong bond between the school and parish community.
Fr. Simon Kimaryo, AJ, Staff, and student participants in the St. Ann Catholic School Annual Walkathon, Allentown Diocese, PA.
Upon returning to campus, the celebration continued with relay races, martial arts demonstrations, yoga sessions, and other activities. The children delighted in stepping outside their usual classroom routine, strengthening friendships, and sharing their experiences of faith and life as young Christians.
The entire day was beautiful and uplifting—a vivid reminder of the vibrancy of St. Ann Catholic School and the dedication of its families. Witnessing the enthusiasm of these children and the support surrounding them reaffirmed the importance of nurturing their faith and guiding them along the path God has prepared for each of them.
-End-
Leave a Reply