Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Odongo MHM has called on Christians not to fear death but to embrace it as part of their spiritual journey, urging them to pray the “Prayer of Happy Death” as a way of preparing for eternal life.
He made these remarks while celebrating Holy Mass for the late Robert Okello Onanyang, a former staff of Soroti Municipal Council and Voice of Teso radio.
In his homily, Fr. Odongo reflected on the transient nature of life, encouraging the congregation to live righteously and remain rooted in Christ.
“Our ultimate goal is to live and thank God for the good we have done. As Christians, we must mourn in faith, knowing that whatever we ask of God, He will provide,” he said.
The priest likened human life to a flower: “It looks beautiful in the morning but fades by evening. This is a reminder that our time on earth is short and we should live in hope, not fear.”
He reminded mourners that death is inevitable but should not be approached with dread.
“We are all reminded that we shall all die, and so we must be people of hope and mourn in hope. God has plans for the dead, including our brother Robert Okello,” Fr. Odongo stated.
Fr. Odongo urged Christians to pray not only for their loved ones who have passed away but also for all departed souls, especially “the souls of the fallen soldiers,” so that they may attain eternal rest.
He emphasized the importance of interceding for the dead as an act of charity and faith, believing that God’s mercy can grant them pardon.
“As we celebrate the life of Robert Okello, let us join hands and minds in prayer so that the Good Lord may receive his soul. When we pray for the deceased, we trust in God’s infinite mercy to pardon their souls and grant them eternal peace,” he added.
He also encouraged the faithful to adopt the “Prayer of Happy Death,” which he described as a spiritual preparation for life after death.
“We must accept the reality that our earthly life will come to an end, but as people of faith, we look forward to a happier life in heaven,” Fr. Odongo said.
The late Robert Okello Onanyang was remembered as a dedicated public servant and media personality who contributed significantly to Soroti Municipality and the Voice of Teso radio station.
His death has left a void in the community, but mourners expressed gratitude for his life of service and commitment.
Fr. Odongo’s message of hope resonated with many mourners who attended the funeral Mass.
His call to focus on eternal life rather than fear of death reminded Christians of the essence of their faith, living a life anchored in Christ and preparing for the joy of heaven.
He concluded by urging Christians to remain steadfast in prayer, support one another in grief, and trust in God’s divine plan for both the living and the dead.
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