SPANISH FORT, Ala. — One look at the prayer list at Providence United Methodist Church shows why beating cancer is a ministry of this congregation.

Of the 37 names listed, 21 are members, friends, family or co-workers who are battling cancer.

There is another list, not printed in the church bulletin, but imprinted on the hearts of the congregation. It is the list of those whose battle is over and who, like the Apostle Paul writing in 2nd Timothy, have “fought the good fight…finished the race…kept the faith.”

Now the community can join in the race to find a cure and keep the faith, at the first Providence UMC Catfish Chase 5K Run/Walk and one-mile fun run Saturday, April 24.

The event is a fundraiser for the church’s American Cancer Society Relay for Life team.

Race organizers named the event the “Catfish Chase” in recognition of the church’s first meeting place, David’s Catfish House in Spanish Fort, a catfish restaurant. The 330-member church now meets in a new building at 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Drive in Spanish Fort, located between Spanish Fort High School and Middle School.

The out-and-back 5K certified course will start at the church and proceed north on Jimmy Faulkner Drive.

Entry forms may be downloaded at www.providencemethodist.org or are available at the church weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and Sundays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. 

Registration will be taken the day of the race from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. at the church and will be $20 for ages 12 and up, including a T-shirt while supplies last, and $15 for those 12 and under. Race day registration for those not wanting a T-shirt will be $18 for those over age 12 and $8 for those age 12 and under.

Police, firefighters and active military personnel may participate for free.

The fun run is free to runners registered for the 5K, and $7 for all others.

Pizza, fruit and beverages will be available after the race.

Carmelita Hartley, one of the Catfish Chase organizers, said the enthusiasm with which Providence UMC has organized and embraced Relay for Life activities is “amazing.”

For more information, visit the Providence UMC Web site at www.providencemethodist.org or call the church office at 626-2510.