New York City – Griffin Oleinik is set to run the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, but his race is more than a test of endurance. After a decade‑long break from running, the former Catholic novice turned marathoner says the sport rescued him from trauma suffered while living in a monastery in Italy.

From monastery to marathon

Oleinik grew up Catholic and, in 2014, entered a monastery in Italy hoping to deepen his spirituality. “I thought this would be a great way to learn to live alone with God and to explore my spirituality,” he recalled. However, his novice director barred him from running and later abused him, forcing Oleinik to leave the monastery.

Running as a salvation tool

Back in the United States, Oleinik turned to running as a way to process his trauma. “Running became, basically like a salvation tool. It really saved me,” he said. Combined with therapy, the miles helped him confront the isolation and trust issues that followed the abuse.

Community and cura personalis

During the COVID‑19 pandemic, Oleinik realized his solitary lifestyle was no longer sustainable. He joined the Prospect Park Track Club, finding camaraderie and what he describes as “cura personalis” – the Catholic principle of care for the whole person. “It’s not about times or splits; it’s about togetherness,” he explained.

Family life and faith on the run

Today Oleinik is married with a one‑year‑old child, and his father serves as his running coach. He often prays while jogging along the Hudson River and through Central Park, feeling “one with everything” as he runs. “Running is everything to me. It really saved me and keeps saving me,” he affirmed.

Looking ahead to the marathon

As the marathon approaches, Oleinik says the race symbolizes his ongoing journey of healing, faith, and family. His story underscores how a supportive local running community can provide the care and belonging that many seek after personal hardship.

Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.