It was a day filled with gratitude, excitement, and praise as Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) took home First Place in the Beginners Category at the Great Ethiopian Run Wellness Award ceremony.
The award was personally presented by legendary runner Haile Gebrselassie. Before announcing the winner, Haile noted that while all five final nominees in the category were outstanding, they had to choose just one to receive the top honor, before proudly calling out Living Parchment Ministry!
The annual Wellness Awards honor participation across a wide range of sectors, including Business, Schools, Influencers, Women, Men, Embassies, Government, NGOs, and Beginners. News of the win was also featured across the Great Ethiopian Run’s social media channels, giving Living Parchment wonderful visibility and reach.
A Simple Idea with Lasting Impact
LPM’s involvement in the Great Ethiopian Run goes far beyond staying active. Over the past year, our team has taken part in training activities, the Women’s Run, the Children’s Run, and the main Great Ethiopian Run itself. For LPM, these gatherings aren’t just fitness events, they are a prime opportunity to share books with fellow participants and spectators.
This whole effort was sparked by Lizibie Fentaw, LPM’s Head of Circulation. Even before joining Living Parchment Ministry, Lizibie was already participating in the Great Ethiopian Run on her own initiative and using the event as a space to hand out books. Once she joined LPM, she faithfully brought that same vision with her, carrying out the book distribution under the ministry’s banner.
“Totally Unexpected”
While simply being named among the top five nominees was already a huge milestone, coming in first place came as a complete surprise.
“To be selected as a nominee was a big deal for us, but to be the first was totally unexpected. I never expected that we would be first and get the award,” shared Lizibie, who admitted feeling a mix of nerves and pure delight as the announcement was made.
Reflecting on what the recognition means for the ministry, she added:
“Having LPM’s name mentioned at an event like this is a big deal for recognition. It’s not because we’ve done anything special, but because God made it happen so we will have even more opportunities to serve Him and distribute books with energy.”
Sharing the Joy & Giving Thanks
When called up to receive the award, Lizibie shared a few heartfelt words about what the moment meant to her and the ministry. She also made the most of the occasion by handing out books to several attendees and notable figures in the room, including Ethiopian singer and public figure Chachi Tadesse and fellow award winners.
Living Parchment Ministry extends its warm thanks to the team at The Great Ethiopian Run for this wonderful recognition and platform.
Above all, all honor, praise, and glory belong to God, who makes every step possible and continues to open doors for His word to spread.
