Support Fr. Samer Youssef's Marathon Mission

Dear Beloved, I am Fr. Samer Youssef, and I am participating in the St. George Marathon on October 5th this year. This marathon is more than just a race for me; it represents a journey and a mission that is deeply personal and significant for our parish. When I was assigned to the Church of the Redeemer in Los Altos Hills California in 2000, we eagerly began the project of building a hall and a school. However, in 2002, our dreams were shattered by an arson fire after 9/11. I will never forget that devastating Sunday, April 7.

Despite the setback, we shifted our focus to rebuilding our place of worship to keep our community united. This building project has felt like a marathon itself, running a grueling 26.2 miles, mirroring the years from 2000 to 2024. Now, we are nearing the finish line with just a few years left. I pray that our parishioners can hold on for the last few miles to complete what we started.

We have struggled to gather donations, as many of our parishioners live paycheck to paycheck, especially in the Bay Area. However, a very generous parishioner has offered a matching fund of $1 million, and we have already raised almost $200,000. We need your help to reach our goal by September 30.

Running a marathon symbolizes the journey of life. Our training begins at birth, with parents and the church guiding and nourishing us. Just as we train for a marathon, we grow, learn, and endure through life’s challenges. Completing a marathon, like achieving our building project, is a significant accomplishment.

We aim to leave a legacy for our children by completing this building project, which includes a hall for fellowship and special occasions, and a school to educate the next generation with Christian ethics. We pray that you can donate towards this effort and sponsor my marathon run. All proceeds will go towards the church project.

You can donate online or by check to the Orthodox Church of the Redeemer. I will keep you updated on my training. Our goal is to raise $50,000 for the Building Fund. Those who donate over $1,000 will have their names on a commemorative wall in the new hall.

May our Lord Jesus Christ bless you and your families for your help and donations.

Love In Christ,

V. Rev. Fr. Samer Youssef, D.Min