Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. John Afareha.
The governor also commiserated with the entire Catholic Diocese of Warri over passing of the bishop emeritus.
This is contained in a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon on Tuesday.
Oborevwori described the late Bishop as a revered servant of God, whose life of faith, humility and dedication to humanity left an indelible mark on the Church and society.
” Bishop Afareha’s years of priestly and episcopal service were characterised by spiritual discipline, pastoral simplicity and unwavering commitment to the growth of the Catholic faith, particularly in Warri Diocese.
“The passing of Afareha is a great loss not only to the Catholic Church but to Delta and humanity at large.
“He was a father, shepherd and man of deep prayer, whose life exemplified service, sacrifice and obedience to the will of God,” he said.
Oborevwori extended his condolences to the Catholic Bishop of Warri, Most Rev. Anthony Ewherido, the clergy, religious and faithful of the diocese.
He also extended the sympathy to the family of the deceased and prayed God to grant them comfort and fortitude in their moment of grief.
The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Bishop’s soul and asked God to grant him eternal rest.
Newsmen recalls that the Bishop was ordained a Catholic priest on Dec. 30, 1973 and consecrated Bishop on May 14, 1997.
He died on Jan. 18, at the age of 78.
