Catholic Charities

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki ran his 21^st marathon on Oct. 11 by completing his second Springfield Marathon (26.2 mi), in 4:49:49.

“That makes 21 marathons in 21 years for me,” said Bishop Paprocki.

This year Bishop Paprocki asked his marathon supporters to donate “money for justice.” More than $18,000 was raised for the Lex Cordis Endowment Fund that helps support Catholic Charities Legal Services of Springfield (CCLS).  The ministry began in 2013 assisting people in the Springfield diocese with little to no income in obtaining pro bono legal services from a panel of local, volunteer attorneys. CCLS, which was spearheaded by Bishop Paprocki, believes that regardless of a person's ability to pay, everyone has the right to competent legal counsel.

Supporters along the route which began and ended on the campus of University of Illinois Springfield offered Bishop Paprocki refreshment and cheers to the finish. "I am grateful for everyone's prayers and support," Bishop Paprocki said.

Another $10,000 was raised by for Chicago Legal Clinic (CLC) endowment fund.  Since 1981, the CLC has evolved from a small neighborhood office to a keystone provider oflegal counseling and high quality representation at low cost or pro bono and free educational seminars on legal topics. Through CLC efforts, hundreds of clients have received legal protection from domestic violence, had their immigration status formalized, adopted children and been rescued from foreclosure.  Bishop Paprocki held a key role in establishing the CLC.