Five new motorbikes on the road in Aru

The bikes were funded through Bishop Mark's Biking Bishops Mission Fund, which was launched in 2025 to support mission and ministry in Chester's partner dioceses of Aru and Boga.

Earlier this year, £3,000 was sent from the fund to help purchase additional motorbikes. At the weekend, colleagues in Aru shared photographs of the five new bikes and news that they are already being used by pastors serving communities across the diocese.

They expressed their thanks to everyone who has supported the fund:

"Thanks to your generous funding, we were able to purchase motorcycles for our pastors. These motorcycles are already transforming their daily lives. They reduce travel time to isolated communities, make it easier to visit the sick and assist vulnerable people, and strengthen the impact of our social and spiritual work in the field. May God bless you."

For many clergy in Aru and Boga, ministry involves travelling long distances on difficult roads to reach remote churches and communities. A motorbike can make a significant difference, enabling pastors to visit congregations more regularly, respond to pastoral needs more quickly and extend the reach of the Church's ministry.

Since Bishop Mark launched the initiative, supporters from across the Diocese, including churches, cycling groups and individual donors, have helped raise more than £16,000. So far, £12,000 has been sent to Aru and Boga, with further funding expected to be transferred in the coming months.

As a result of that generosity, there are now 16 motorbikes serving the Church's ministry across the two dioceses.

This latest update is a tangible reminder of the value of the partnership between Chester, Aru and Boga, and of how practical support can strengthen ministry, deepen relationships and help the Church reach those living in some of the most isolated communities.

Please continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Aru and Boga continuing to minister amidst the challenges of the Ebola crisis, and for all those using these motorbikes in the service of their communities

and the Gospel.

Faithful God,

We thank you for the partnership we share with our brothers and sisters in Aru and Boga, and for the generosity that has provided these new motorbikes for ministry. Bless all who use them in your service. Keep them safe on every journey, strengthen them in their work, and help them bring your love and hope to those who are isolated, sick or in need. We pray especially for communities affected by the Ebola crisis. Grant wisdom, courage and protection to all who are caring for others, and bring healing and peace to those who are suffering. May our friendship in Christ continue to grow, and may your Church be strengthened in Chester, Aru and Boga, for the glory of your name.

Amen.