Devotion in Motion
For three consecutive years, Saint Mary of Victories hosted the Saint Louis Rosary Run — one of the most distinctive Catholic public events in the city’s history. Held on or near the feast of Our Lady of Victories, it drew hundreds of faithful to the streets of old St. Louis for a joyful celebration of faith, family, fitness, and prayer.
Organized in partnership with the Confraternity of the Holy Rosary, the event ran in 2017, 2018, and 2019, all beginning and ending at Saint Mary of Victories. The founder and creative force behind the Rosary Run was Jason Walter, whose vision and energy brought this unique event to life.
What Was the Rosary Run?
Participants could enter the full 5K Run/Walk, the shorter Divine Mercy Mile, or simply join the Marian Procession. Every runner received a rosary ring to pray while running. Mile markers corresponded to the mysteries of the Rosary. Clergy ran for free. Walkers, families, and children were all welcome.
The route wound through streets rarely seen by most St. Louisans, with the Gateway Arch rising above the old industrial landscape as a constant backdrop. Parish choirs, school bands, and religious in clerical dress lined the course.
Icon Alley & the Grand Finale
The spiritual heart of the event was Icon Alley at the corner of Chouteau and 3rd Street, beneath the viaduct. Devoted spectators gathered there with icons, photos, statues, and rosaries. As the last walkers crossed the finish line, a bagpiper in full Highland dress led the faithful and a four-foot statue of Our Lady of Victories — carried on a flower-adorned platform by altar servers — through the finish. Music played. Flowers were tossed onto the platform. The faithful prayed.
Devotions then continued inside the church: the Blessing of Religious Articles, an Awards Ceremony, and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.
“Tie up your laces, and bring on the graces!”
— Rosary Run motto, 2017–2019The Rosary Run was suspended in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and has not yet resumed. We hope to bring it back. If you’re interested in helping, contact us at welcome@smov.info.