Relay for Life

“Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others”  2 Corinthians 9:13

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.  At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path.  Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event.  Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.

What Happens at Relay For Life?
Although every Relay For Life is different, there are certain traditions at all Relays, no matter where they are held.  These traditions help participants celebrate, remember, and fight back.

Celebrate – The Survivor’s Lap
Relay starts with a Survivor’s Lap – an inspirational time when survivors are invited to circle the track together and help everyone celebrate the victories we’ve achieved over cancer.  The Survivor’s Lap is an emotional example of how Relay participants are ensuring that more lives are saved each year – like those of each individual on the track.  We also recognize and celebrate caregivers at Relay For Life.  These individuals give their time, love, and support to friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who face cancer.  At Relay, people understand the frustrations and joys of being a caregiver, since the effects of cancer reach far beyond just the person diagnosed.

Remember – The Luminaria Ceremony
After dark, we honor people who have been touched by cancer and remember loved ones lost to the disease during the Luminaria Ceremony.  Candles are lit inside bags filled with sand, each one bearing the name of a person touched by cancer, and participants often walk a lap in silence.  As people take time to remember, those who have walked alongside others battling cancer can grieve and find healing.  This is a time that truly highlights the importance of defeating this disease.

Remember – Eucharist
At midnight the St. Luke’s participants gather and share Eucharist as they remember those who have died and pray for those battling cancer.

Please click on picture to contact Stephanie Borsi if you would like to learn more of St. Luke’s involvement in Relay for Life.