Media Release

Dubai, Feb 8: In a unique humanitarian fund-raising initiative, a walkathon will raise Dh 650,000 for six cancer patients of different nationalities at Dubai’s Creek Park on February 24.

The event labelled 'Mercithon' (walk of mercy) is being organised by St Mary’s Catholic Church, here, as one of the activities of its golden jubilee celebrations, approved by Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department and supported by UAE Red Crescent and Dubai Municipality.

Over 10,000 people are expected to attend the charity event that will raise funds for a full year’s treatment of six cancer patients from economically weak sections, belonging to the nationalities of Pakistan, Philippines, India, Syria, Morocco and Lebanon.

According to Fr Lennie Connully, parish priest of St Mary’s Church, Mercithon is an extension of the Catholic Church’s Year of Mercy (2016) programme and also blends wonderfully into the UAE’s 'Year of Giving' declaration.

“Caring for others without discrimination on grounds of nationality and religion has been the core tenet of Christianity and we are happy to demonstrate this by organising this charity event to mark 50 years of St Mary’s Church,” commented Fr Lennie.

“Mercithon is our way of engaging our community in serving the poor and the sick, which forms the central pillar of our faith, as reiterated by His Holiness Pope Francis in his homilies.

“We are also happy to be inspired by the vision of the UAE leaders, including His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president and prime minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who have stood out as epitomes of generosity, over the years. The Year of Giving 2017 is a further endorsement of their commitment to humanitarian causes and religious tolerance,” Fr. Lennie added.

Mercithon will be organised by the youth of St Mary’s Church at Creek Park from 8 am to 4 pm in a carnival atmosphere, featuring fun events, rides, games, food stalls, cultural activities, celebrities, music performances and raffle draws.

“We are seeking corporate support for raising the targeted amount for the treatment of the six cancer patients. We are sure that companies and organisations will be generous in extending their support for this worthy cause. As cancer treatment is an ongoing expense, we plan to make this an annual event on the church calendar in order to help needy people round the year,” said Fr Lennie.