THE Bishop of Blackburn’s Harvest Appeal is looking for digital donations.

The annual appeal is underway, but this year people are being urged to donate online.

The Rt Rev Julian Henderson is still allowing donations to the appeal by cheque. But he hopes, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, by providing a digital option, the appeal will not lose donations.

Bishop Julian said: “I have always enjoyed seeing the various exciting and creative ways people have responded to this appeal and this year will be no different I am sure!

“We know that the coronavirus pandemic has brought new and acute problems, particularly in places where poverty is already an issue.

“So, I am delighted the charities chosen will work towards the relief of some of the hardship caused by the virus, supporting the most vulnerable.”

The charities to receive support are Tearfund, which fights poverty and injustice at a local level, and Friends of the Holy Land, which aims to support Christian communities in the West Bank, Gaza Strip and Israel.

The Bishop added: “This year ourSchools will be raising money for the former while churches can choose to support either cause. Last year the total raised by the Bishop’s Harvest appeal was £23,789.

Bishop Julian added: “Please pray about the level of your support for the appeal, which is a helpful reminder of the needs of those much less fortunate than ourselves. Out of our thankfulness may there be generosity, even in the uncertain and unsettling times of the coronavirus pandemic.”