4,400-ft climb raises more than $2,000 for persecuted Christians

Two families with young children battled heavy rain and wind during their ascent to the top of the highest mountain in the British Isles, in order to raise funds for a charity helping suffering Christians.

Eight members of the Do Rozario and Pampackal families – including a seven-year-old – have raised more than $2,000 as of Thursday, September 5th, by climbing the 4,413-foot summit in temperatures just three degrees above freezing.

Their daring climb was part of Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN)’s #TeamRed challenge.

Aloma Pampackal, the organizer of the fundraising initiative, told ACN that the group was “driven by a sense of purpose,” despite the “harsh conditions.”

Pampackal said on behalf of the team: “There were moments of laughter and camaraderie, but also times of doubt and frustration, as the cold, rain, wind, and steep ascent tested our endurance.”

Members of the families told ACN that knowing they were climbing for a cause greater than themselves – supporting Christian communities in need – gave them the strength to carry on.

Pampackal said that, starting at 8:30 A.M., “the initial part of the climb along the Mountain Track was manageable, and spirits were high as we encouraged one another. However, the weather quickly turned as we ascended.

A thick fog rolled in, reducing visibility to a few meters; the temperature dropped to three degrees Celsius; and fierce winds up to 56 miles per hour whipped through the air. To make matters more challenging, we were soon hit by rain, adding another layer of difficulty to already tough conditions.

After several grueling hours, we reached the summit, feeling a mix of relief, pride, and awe, although the intense cold and fog meant we couldn’t stay long.”

She said that the descent was equally challenging, because of “the rocky terrain, rain, and biting winds, [but] the sense of accomplishment and shared purpose kept our spirits high. After nine hours, we reached the base, exhausted but filled with pride, knowing we had not only conquered Ben Nevis, but had done so with a meaningful mission.

This climb tested our endurance and faith, and we are deeply grateful for the prayers and support that carried us through.”

The families told ACN that they felt inspired to participate in the climbing challenge after hearing about ACN during a Mass appeal. “Learning about the situations in Nigeria and India deeply touched us.” Pampackal said. “This inspired us to pick ACN for our cause. [And] we all look forward to continuing our mission to help those in need through ACN.”

As part of ACN’s #TeamRed challenge, in the lead-up to #RedWednesday (November 20th), all funds raised will be doubled, up to at least $260,000 – thanks to pledges by some of the charity’s top benefactors. #RedWednesday is ACN’s annual event highlighting the persecution of Christians.