Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) Honors the Memory of “Veronica Anni and Mary Aurupai"
Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) Honors the Memory of “Veronica Anni and Mary Aurupai"
By Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
In the heart of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, a profound sadness has settled over the community. The passing of two remarkable women, Hon. Veronica Anni and Miss Mary Aurupai, has left a void that cannot be easily filled. Yet, amid the tears and sorrow, there is a deep sense of gratitude for the lives they lived and the legacies they left behind, noted Bishop Eduardo in his condolence letter on behalf of (CDTY).
“The passing of Veronica Anni and Mary Aurupai is a deeply felt wound not only for the pious
CDTY Faithful but also for all the people of Western Equatoria State and above all the Azande
Kingdom who has admired their wise church, and civil and social stewardship”
According to bishop Eduardo, Veronica and Mary were more than just members of our community; they were pillars of strength, embodiments of faith, and beacons of love. Their contributions to both the church and society were immeasurable, touching the lives of countless individuals across Western Equatoria State and beyond.
“Their lifetime of exceptional roles/leadership in both the church and society will live on in the hearts and minds of Christians and non-Christians who were privileged to know Veronica and Mary”.
He added that as we reflect on their lives, we are reminded of their unwavering commitment to serving others with Christ's love. Whether it was through their roles in the church, their involvement in civil affairs, or their dedication to social stewardship, Veronica and Mary approached every task with grace, compassion, and humility.
“We honor their memories, as they faithfully served our communities and other communities
with unwavering commitment and Christ’s love in his heart. Truly they have left behind a
wonderful legacy in the memories and the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing
them”.
The prelate further stated in his letter that though their earthly journey has come to an end, we take solace in the promise of Christ's resurrection. For as Jesus declared, "I am the Resurrection and the life: he that believes in me…shall never die" (John 11: 25-26). Our faith assures us that Veronica and Mary are now experiencing the fullness of life eternal in the presence of our Lord.
“Amid our sorrow, we must try to remember, that although their earthly journey has
ended, we know that life does not end with our physical death but is just the beginning of life
eternal because our Lord promised us, “…I am the Resurrection and the life: he that believes in
me…shall never die”. (John 11: 25-26)”.
Even as we mourn their passing, we celebrate the legacies they have left behind. Their memories will forever be cherished by those whose lives they touched, and their example will continue to inspire us to live lives of faith, service, and love.
In the words of St. Paul, "Neither death nor life...shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom. 8:38). Veronica's and Mary's lives were a testament to this enduring truth, and their spirits will remain alive in our hearts forever.
As we bid farewell to these beloved sisters in Christ, let us hold onto the hope of reunion in heaven. May their memories be eternal, and may they rest in peace knowing that they are forever loved and remembered.
“Thus, our greatest consolation is our belief in Christ's resurrection and the resurrection of all
in Him. Our constant prayer for our departed loved ones is an affirmation that they are still alive
in Christ, and that, as we are all united in God's love, we will be reunited one day in heaven. For
St. Paul says that “neither death nor life...shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which
is in Christ Jesus our Lord”. (Rom. 8:38)
May Veronica’s and Mary’s memories be eternal!
Prayerfully yours with love in Christ”.
