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Last updated 20th July 2026

Bishop's Harvest Appeal 2026

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.

Hebrews 12:1

An Urgent Need

A serious healthcare crisis is emerging in Kajokeji County. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), currently the

 main healthcare provider for the region, will withdraw all services by the end of 2026. Supp

ort to local healthcare centres such as Liwolo will end by September, with hospital services ceasing by December.

Without this support, many communities will be left without accessible medical care. The nearest healthcare facilities are several hours away and remain out of reach for many families due to distance and cost.

This will impact pregnant mothers, sick children, and vulnerable elderly people — leading to preventable suffering and loss of life.

A Message from Bishop Joseph

Warm greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We are deeply grateful for the continued love, friendship and partnership of the Diocese of Blackburn. Your commitment, even amidst many challenges, is a powerful testimony of Christian compassion and unity in the Gospel.

We give thanks that this year’s Harvest Appeal may support the Diocese of Liwolo. We pray that God will continue to strengthen the bond between our dioceses for the blessing of our people and the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom.

Our Response

In response to this urgent need, we are seeking to support the Jehovah Rapha Healthcare Centre in Liwolo. This is a simple but life-saving intervention that will ensure continued local access to essential healthcare.

  • Renovation and painting of the healthcare facility
  • Provision of essential medicines and medical supplies
  • Solar lighting and clean water for safe night deliveries
  • Support for frontline staff including:
    • Clinical officer
    • Nurse
    • Laboratory technician
    • Midwife
    • Watchman and cleaner

Why This Matters

This project will provide immediate, life-saving support for thousands of people. It will ensure that mothers can give birth safely, children can receive treatment, and families can access care close to home.

At a time when hope is diminishing, your support will demonstrate the love of Christ in a practical and powerful way.

Bishop Philip's Assualt Course Challenge

To encourage giving, Bishop Philip has encouraged the clergy in the Diocese to join him for an Assualt Course Challenge.

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday 3rd October
  • Time: Arrival 9:00am for a 9:30am start     
  • Location: Whitehough Outdoor Centre, Barley (BB12 9LF)
  • The Course: A short, fun assault course suitable for all reasonably fit participants
  • Dress Code: Dog collars encouraged for clergy – expect mud!
               
 Why Take Part?

This event is about more than fundraising — it’s about raising awareness across the diocese. By taking part, you will help shine a light on the urgent needs in Liwolo and inspire others to give generously through their churches and schools.          

Participants are encouraged to seek sponsorship, with a downloadable sponsor form available. Donations on the day are also welcome.                
         

Get Your School Involved

Schools across the Diocese are warmly invited to join in the fun by organising their own sponsored assault course or challenge event.          
                    
  • Create a simple obstacle course on school grounds   
  • Encourage pupils to gain sponsorship from family and friends           
  • Make it fun, messy, and memorable!
    •          
    Taking part will not only raise vital funds but also help children engage with the global Church and learn about supporting others in need.      
      

Ways to donate to the Harvest Appeal:

  • You can donate online using a credit card by clicking here where you can also Gift Aid your donation.
  •  You can donate by cheque, payable to 'Blackburn Diocesan Board of Finance Limited (Diocese Harvest Appeal)' and send to Blackburn Diocesan Board of Finance, Diocesan Office, Clayton House, Walker Office Park, Blackburn, BB1 2QE
  • If you wish to make a bank transfer, please email dbfaccounts@blackburn.anglican.org and ask for the bank details, giving your name, school/parish and parish role.

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