"Ignite The Passion", Denver Women's Day 2011

This year for Women’s Day, we asked the women in the church to join 55,000 community members in the Komen Race for the Cure. The theme was “Ignite the Passion”

At 55,000 participants, Denver’s race is one of the biggest in the nation. To call it a race is to miss its true essence. It is less a race and more a celebration of life, of health, of friendship, of family and of being women. Most participants wore something festive. Crazy socks, pink wigs, tutus, tiaras and boas were abundant as was every variation of pink apparel. The beautiful fall Colorado day was a perfect setting for the upbeat walk. But the serious nature of the event was evident as well. Many people wore race bibs in memory of family members and friends who had lost their battle to breast cancer. Others wore bibs to celebrate those who have survived this deadly disease. It was touching to see current breast cancer patients walking without hair, but with buoyant spirits. The Denver Church of Christ team of runners and walkers was the fifth largest in the race with 194 women. An additional 100 women chose to volunteer and help support those walking and running. As a team, we also raised almost $1500 for breast cancer research and cancer related services for our state.

After the race, more friends joined us as we walked across the street for a Spiritual Rally. Participants were greeted with upbeat music, pink balloons and a video of women in the church sharing what ignites their passion. An original song written and performed by a teen sister followed and then we heard an inspiring testimony by a young disciple. We also were able to share a touching moment as cancer survivors in the audience were asked to stand and each of them was presented with a pink rose.After that, Debbie McIntosh preached the word. Debbie shared her story of a three-time diagnosis of cancer and her own spiritual journey through the process. She reminded us that each one of us is mortal. Cancer simply brings that issue into sharper focus. She then challenged us to be surrendered to God, no matter what challenges we are facing, and to take care of our physical health and spiritual health.

The day was an amazing blend of inspiration and fun, but also a sober reminder of the fleeting nature of life. It was fabulous to gather with friends, sisters, neighbors and friends to support our community and to “Ignite the Passion” for Christ, for one another, and for our community.