On Sunday, members of the Church of the Brethren (EYN) Moduganari in Maiduguri, Borno State, experienced something very strange.
How a day of joy and celebration turned into mourning with the twinkle of an eye is still a mystery to many.
It was a beautiful Sunday morning.
The good news of a sister who became the latest mother in town had filtered into the ears of many.
With joy in their hearts, ready to dance like David danced, the members stormed the church for the child dedication ceremony.
However, during the ceremony, the officiating pastor, identified as Reverend Alaku Vincent slumped and died.
That was how a joyful day turned tragic.
Efforts to revive Vincent were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead shortly after.
While the cause of death has not been officially disclosed, church members and colleagues have taken to social media to mourn the loss of their beloved pastor.
A Visionary Leader
In a Facebook post, the District Church Secretary of Church Brethren of Nigeria, Timothy Hammajam, described the deceased as “a visionary leader with focus”.
He added: “KBC DCM 2003 graduating class will ever miss your elderly and prophetic words. May God comfort EYN and your family”.
Another church member with the Facebook name Prince Malikson Papaman shared a tribute.
Final Sermon
Papaman described Vincent’s departure as leaving an “unfillable void” but took comfort in the Bible’s assurance that his death is but a sleep.
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He said: “Just a few hours ago, he stood confidently on the altar… passionately shepherding his flock.
“His powerful message still resonates in my mind, as he emphasised the importance of family unity in worship.
“Little did I know it would be his final sermon.
“Rest in eternal peace, Rev. Vincent Alaku. Until we meet again”.
