Ortom condoles Catholic community over death of priest

Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue has condoled the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese and the entire Catholic community in the State, over the demise of one of its foremost priests, Rev. Fr Michael Murphy.

This is contained in a condolence message he sent to Bishop Wilfred Anagbe on Monday in Makurdi.

He said Murphy who was the longest serving Catholic Priest in the state, died on Monday in Makurdi after a brief illness at the age of 94 years.

It said that the exploits of the deceased in evangelism turned things around for good.

He described Murphy as an exceptional servant of God who preached salvation and impacted positively everywhere he served.

The governor recalled the support and contributions of the priest to the people and government of the state, especially during violent attacks on citizens of the state by herdsmen.

He said that Murphy was a great soldier of Christ who would stop at nothing to convey the message of salvation to the people no matter the odds.

“Rev. Murphy was a unique priest. He was calm but blunt and frank to a fault. He upheld the sanctity of truth at all times.

“He craved for a peaceful society where justice, fairness and equity should be the ground norm.

“His exit at this time is painful but we are consoled that Murphy’s legacy of selfless service to mankind especially to the poor and the vulnerable will remain ever green,” it stated.

He prayed to God in His infinite mercy to grant him eternal rest.