ORLU, NIGERIA – The Catholic Diocese of Orlu on Thursday, June 18, 2026, bid a final farewell to one of its distinguished priests, Very Rev. Msgr. Josaphat Obiajunwa, whose life and ministry were marked by an unwavering commitment to priestly formation, human development and spiritual mentorship.
The funeral Mass drew an impressive gathering of bishops, priests, religious, seminarians and faithful from across the country, reflecting the profound impact the late priest had on the Church and society.
Present at the funeral were Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma, Bishop of Orlu Diocese; Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese; Most Rev. Anthony J.V. Obinna, Archbishop Emeritus of Owerri; Most Rev. Solomon Amatu of Okigwe Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Echema of Aba Diocese; and Most Rev. Thomas Obiatuegwu, Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu diocese.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Archbishop Lucius Ugorji and attended by seminary rectors, formators, deacons and numerous seminarians from Seat of Wisdom Major Seminary, Owerri, and Bigard Memorial Seminary, Enugu.
At the beginning of the celebration, Archbishop Ugorji expressed gratitude to the Bishop of Orlu Diocese for inviting him to preside over the funeral Mass. He also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Bishop Ukwuoma, the Diocese of Orlu and the family of the deceased, praying for the eternal repose of Msgr. Obiajunwa.
Delivering the homily, Rev. Fr. Dr. Titus Offor welcomed the bishops and distinguished guests and reflected on the Christian understanding of death. He described death not as an end but as a transition into eternal life with God, made possible through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He reminded the faithful that the celebration was not merely one of mourning but also one of hope in the resurrection.
Fr. Offor noted that eternal life requires preparation through righteous living, doing good, shunning evil and contributing positively to the growth of others.
Reflecting on the life of the deceased, he recounted Msgr. Obiajunwa’s immense contributions to priestly and human formation. Throughout his priestly ministry, he served in several capacities, including Dean of Studies, teacher, Rector of St. Mary’s Seminary, Umuowa, and Vocations Director of the Diocese of Orlu. He later became a lecturer and Spiritual Director at Seat of Wisdom Major Seminary, Owerri, where he continued to shape generations of future priests.
Despite his numerous achievements and responsibilities, Fr. Offor described him as a humble, compassionate and approachable priest who corrected others with love and sincerity.
Echoing the words of St. Paul, he affirmed that Msgr. Obiajunwa had fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith, and now awaited the crown of eternal glory.
Following the Post-Communion Prayer, the Bishop of Aba Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Echema, led the Rite of Final Commendation.
In his remarks, the Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma, thanked everyone who had come to sympathize with the Diocese and the family. He also expressed gratitude to all those who cared for Msgr. Obiajunwa during his illness and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Eusebius Obiajunwa thanked all who came to pay their final respects to his brother and prayed for God’s protection and safe journey for everyone returning to their various destinations.
In a final tribute, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji remarked that Msgr. Obiajunwa did not merely impart knowledge but formed character. He described him as an embodiment of humility, simplicity and gentleness whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
He extended profound condolences to the Bishop of Orlu, the entire Diocese of Orlu and the bereaved family, praying that God, whom the deceased faithfully served throughout his life, would grant him eternal rest among the saints.
At the conclusion of the funeral rites, the mortal remains of Very Rev. Msgr. Josaphat Obiajunwa were laid to rest after the grave was blessed by Bishop Ukwuoma.
May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
