The quiet community of Uruk Ata Ikot Otok in Etim Ekpo LGA of South West Area of Nigeria played host to thousands of mourners, sympathizers and well-wishers from all walks of life on Friday, 29th April 2022.

On this day, the remains of Late Bishop Anthony Etim Urom aged 65 was interred in his country home amidst mixed feelings.

Late Bishop Urom had served for 35 years as minister, 25 of which as a Bishop of South West Area.

He was described by many as exemplary, dedicated, humane and a man with strength of character. He was called to rest peacefully on January 8th.

The obsequies were preceded by service of songs on Tuesday, 26th in his residence where sympathizers paid him flowing tributes.
 

“Will God remember you?”

Lead Apostle Geoffrey Nwogu had commissioned Apostle Samuel Usoro of South East Area to officiate at the funeral service.

In his funeral oration, the officiant condoles the bereaved family and well-wishers with a word from Genesis 8: 1 - 2.  " Then God remembered Noah and every living thing...."

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints”, with this deep impressive words from Psalm 116: 15. Apostle Usoro eulogies the late Bishop assuring his family that God will remember his sacrifices, labour of love and commitment in his vineyard, the same way Noah was remembered. He said the deceased was faithful, obedient and trustworthy who served with a great deal of love and joy. 

Apostle Usoro urged the mourners to trust in God, obey Him and look up to Him in their difficult moments.

He further pleaded all to be sincere in their dealings and contribute to the salvation of our neighbors for there is a great reward in doing so.

The Apostle reminded the congregation how God remembered Noah, Abraham, Mordechai, Hannah and others for obedience, trust and good deeds.

Look up to God in all circumstances of life, trust in His promises and follow the apostolate.

Those God will remember will share in everlasting fellowship with Him in His Kingdom, he concluded.

Apostle Ernest Onwukwe and Bishop Ime Udombang assisted at the altar.

In the Apostle's entourage were Apostles Chima Ibekwe, Ernest Onwukwe, Oscar Nwanza, Armstrong Inyang, Geoffrey Jediel, Felix Kpegasin, Effiong Ekpenyong (rtd), Augustine Rotimi (rtd) and the host, Enobong Udoh with their spouses.

Others included Bishops Isaac Adelabu, Samuel Banuna and Ime Udombang and District Leaders across South Central, South East and South West working Areas.

Late Bishop Anthony Urom left behind his wife, Helen and nine children.