Priest Embarks on 1,600-Kilometer Cycling Journey to Raise Funds for Children's Hospice

A Catholic priest from Bremen, Pawel Nowak, is set to undertake an extraordinary cycling challenge, aiming to pedal 1,630 kilometers from Hildesheim to Rome within a tight 72-hour timeframe without any sleep. This ambitious endeavor is designed to raise funds for a children's hospice located in Syke, near Bremen. The journey is scheduled to commence on Friday, with the priest starting from Syke before making his way to Hildesheim, where the main cycling event will kick off on Saturday.

Nowak, 39, has experience with long-distance cycling, having previously completed a 1,200-kilometer circuit around the Catholic Diocese of Hildesheim in just 54 hours in June 2024. His past efforts were aimed at supporting the charity 'Bremer Engel,' which assists seriously ill children. His current challenge, however, places more significant stakes as he seeks to support the hospice, which provides crucial care for children with life-limiting conditions.

The priest's journey will conclude in the Vatican, where he plans to deliver letters from the hospice's residents to Pope Leo XIV during a general audience on August 6. Alongside him will be four families from his parish, who will support him with replacement bikes, food, and other necessities throughout the ride.

Nowak's commitment to this cause reflects a broader initiative within the religious community to support vulnerable children and their families. The funds raised from this cycling challenge are expected to significantly impact the operations of the children's hospice, which relies heavily on donations to provide its services.

After completing this journey, Nowak will not rest for long. He is also set to participate in an ultra-cycling world championship around Austria, beginning August 11, which spans an even more challenging distance of approximately 2,200 kilometers. Proceeds from this event will be directed to the Bremen Children's Cancer Foundation, further demonstrating his dedication to aiding children in need.

As the cycling event approaches, the local community and beyond are rallying to support the priest's mission, highlighting the spirit of solidarity and compassion that underpins such charitable endeavors. The cycling challenge not only aims to raise funds but also to raise awareness about the critical need for support services for families facing the challenges of severe childhood illnesses.