Ebola Appeal Update

The Bishop of Boga, Bishop William has expressed heartfelt thanks to supporters in the Diocese of Chester for their prayers, generosity and partnership as communities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continue to face the challenges of the Ebola outbreak.

In a letter to friends and partners overseas, the Bishop highlighted the vital role that churches are playing in the fight against Ebola, describing it as a battle being fought on "two fronts" – the medical response to the disease itself and the challenge of tackling misinformation, fear and harmful misconceptions within communities.

Efforts to combat Ebola involve the Ministry of Health, international health organisations, local agencies and churches working together to prevent the spread of the virus and care for those affected. However, significant obstacles remain.

One challenge is tracing people who may have come into contact with infected individuals. In many communities, daily life is highly social and contact between people is frequent, making it difficult to identify and monitor everyone who may be at risk. The Bishop said churches are uniquely placed to help because of their strong presence within local communities.

Another concern is ensuring that people receive medical treatment as early as possible. Poverty and limited healthcare infrastructure often lead people to self-medicate or seek treatment too late, reducing their chances of recovery. The Bishop shared the story of Canon Japhet Barozi, the Diocese of Boga's Mission and Evangelism Coordinator, who contracted Ebola while ministering to the sick and assisting at the burials of Ebola victims. Because he sought treatment quickly, he recovered and now serves on the diocesan Ebola task force, helping to raise awareness about the disease.

As part of that work, Canon Japhet encourages communities to take health advice seriously, reminding people that physical and spiritual wellbeing go hand in hand.

Traditional funeral practices also present challenges in preventing the spread of Ebola. In many areas, large numbers of people gather to mourn, attend overnight vigils and share meals after funerals, increasing the risk of transmission through close physical contact.

Alongside these practical difficulties, communities must also contend with misinformation about the disease. Rumours and false claims can undermine public health efforts and make it harder for medical teams and churches to protect vulnerable people.

The Bishop stressed that community engagement is essential if the fight against Ebola is to succeed and said the Diocese of Boga is committed to playing its part through education, awareness campaigns and practical support. The diocesan task force, made up of staff from its health and development departments, continues to coordinate the Church's response.

Thanking supporters for their contributions, the Bishop said that the work being undertaken would not be possible without the prayers and generosity of churches and individuals abroad.

"We are already engaged in this fight with your support," he wrote.

"Once again, thank you for your support and may God bless you."

Read Bishop William's Letter

The Diocese of Chester has long-standing links with the Diocese of Boga through the Worldwide Church Links programme, supporting its mission and ministry and standing alongside communities during times of challenge and need. Find out more about our global links.

Please continue to support Bishop Mark's Ebola Crisis appeal.