Tragedy: Catholic priest slumps dies during homily service 

Catholic diocese of Issele-Uku, Agbor, Delta State was thrown into mourning on Sunday following the death of the Parish Priest in charge of Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church Revd. Father Stephen Chukwuma who was said to have slumped and died during homily service held in the church.

In a statement issued by the Director of Communications of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Uganwa, said

“With total resignation to the will of God, the Bishop, priests, religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku announce the call to glory of Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephen Chukwuma,” the statement read.

Until his death, the late priest served as the Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, and as the Regional Vicar of the Agbor Region.

According to the Diocese, the 63-year-old cleric collapsed while delivering his homily during the New Year Mass. He was immediately attended to but was later confirmed dead.

The late Fr. Chukwuma hailed from Akumazi-Umuocha in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Diocese expressed deep sorrow over his sudden passing and called on the faithful to pray for the repose of his soul, while also commiserating with his family, parishioners, and the entire Catholic community.

The Catholic Churches in Agbor and Umunede region  communities  has been in mourning mood since the unfortunate incident.

Some of them who posted their condolences at various social media describe him as a faithful priest who served God with all his heart.

They described him as very generous and kindhearted priest who always reach to the poor, the needy and the oppressed in the society.

Late father stephen was a lawyer and has held various positions in the catholic Diocese of Isele-uku having spent over 30 years in the vineyard  of God .