The Revd Annie Blyth, Assistant Curate of St George Colegate & St George Tombland is climbing the equivalent of the height of Mount Sinai and the Mount of Olives. “That’s a total of 3,111 metres which means I need to run up and down my spiral staircase (three storeys) 15 times a day over 30 days. Of course, this is in addition to the normal up and down – and done in one burst, which I’m finding quite killing, although it certainly does count as heart increasing exercise!”
In addition, she’s listening to a recording of the whole Bible, recorded by David Suchet. “I’ve estimated will take 2.5-3 hours for 30 days. This doesn’t sound like much of a challenge, but to find these extra hours every day is very challenging (apart from my church work, I do work one day a week as research fellow at UEA and I’m also working twice a week with my son in his business while in lock-down)! Also, I’m doing this attentively – and writing just a line about the contents of each chapter, as well as one thought each day about something which has particularly grabbed me.
“Of course, I have read the Bible, but I wanted to read it like I would read a book – not in a studious way, trying to work things out or look for answers, but just as a book, as a story. Listening to it is facilitating just that – it’s a completely different experience, and I’m loving it.”
Annie started her challenge on Sunday 19 April and aims to finish Monday 18 May.
“I am really honoured to be the chaplain of The Matthew Project, which is engaged in truly valuable work, supporting people who are recovering from addiction – difficult at the best of times, and even more so in lock-down. The team love and serve, and I want to be a part of that in any way I can, because it’s exactly what we’re all called to do – love our neighbour.”
Donate to Annie’s challenge here
The Revd Canon Keith James CMD Officer for the Diocese of Norwich has set himself the target of running 210km in 21 days during his exercise periods, as part of The Matthew Project 21 Day challenge.
“I hope to raise money and profile for this excellent charity that provides crucial support for people in Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, affected by substance misuse and mental health issues. I’m a trustee and I also want to offer a bit of solidarity with those who will be counting the days, trying to stay clean and sober during the Covid-19 lockdown.
“As I write this I have developed a blister on my left toe and sore knees and I have 179 miles to go…what can go wrong?!
Donate to Keith’s challenge here