By Charles Igwe
Fr Francis Obiegbu’s body was laid to rest on Monday, 29 April, 2024 in a burial mass that attracted people from all walks of life. The burial mass was held at Holy Trinity Basilica and presided over by Archbishop Valerian Okeke.
The homilist, Rev Fr Donald Uzor spoke about late Fr Obiegbu’s commitment to the gospel of Christ which he exemplified in his cheerfulness and generosity. According to the homilist, during Fr Obiegbu’s priestly ministry and life which lasted for about two decades, he left no stones unturned in serving the flock entrusted to his care. True to Fr Donald Uzor words, the impact the deceased had on the lives of many was so evident as the entirety of the Basilica structure were filled with people; friends, family, parishioners from St Theresa Parish Obosi, St Jude Fegge and St Joseph Enekwasumpu, places where he worked creditably as the parish priest.
At the end of the mass, the archdiocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr Prudentius Aroh thanked all those who came to pay their final respect to Fr Obiegbu. He consoled the deceased’s family and friends, assuring them that there was joy in the knowledge that Fr Obiegbu now rests with the angels. Shortly after, Fr Francis Unegbu, on behalf of Onitsha archdiocesan Presbyterian, delivered a funeral oration. This was followed by the blessing of the body of the deceased by the Episcopal Vicar, Rev. Fr JohnBosco Okafor.
The body was then taken to the priests’ graveyard, where after the final rites were read by Archbishop Valerian Okeke, the body was lowered into the earth.
May the soul of Fr Francis Obiegbu and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace.
