Archbishop Martins, Godonu, others pay tribute to late Monsignor Osu

The Archbishop, Catholic Metropolitan See of Lagos, Dr. Alfrelate,wale Martins (middle) with priests and family of the late Monsignor Sunday Osu, priests, at the funeral Mass for the late eminent priest in Lagos

The remains of the former Director of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Very Rev. Monsignor Gabriel Sunday Osu, were laid to rest yesterday in Lagos.

Until his death at the age of 72, he was a prominent media voice who served for over four decades in the Archdiocese and was known for his extensive work in religious journalism and public relations.

The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos Metropolitan See, Dr Alfred Adewale Martins, while speaking at the funeral mass held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, said the late Monsignor Osu endeared himself to many people with his simplicity of expression, his humour and the way he doesn’t take himself too seriously.

The Archbishop said the monsignor was a man who was very concerned about the common good and the welfare of everyone.

The Archbishop, however, called on security agencies to do all that is necessary to ensure our children learn in a safe, conducive environment and not be exposed to the kind of trauma no one should face, particularly children.

Also, Director of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Very Rev. (Fr.) Anthony Godonu, who worked with the late Monsignor for several years before taking over from him as director, described him as a father and a mentor who was never angry about anything.

In his homily, Episcopal Vicar, Catholic Church of the Divine Mercy, Lekki, Monsignor Pascal Nwaezeapu, focused on life and death, the resurrection, and the value of silence before God.

He said that from birth, the only thing certain for all human beings is death.

“Death is a reality and something nobody can run away from. And we know that after death comes judgment, and then the word of eternal life or eternal damnation. If that is the case, it means that how we live our lives here on earth is very, very important.”

The deceased brother, Paul Osu, said the family felt his loss physically, and they are happy with the kind of life he lived.

He described the late monsignor as a caring brother and a good man who left the world better than he met it.