Tragic Loss in Delta State: Remembering Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, the Beloved Priest Who Passed Away During New Year's Eve Service.

 

In a heartbreaking turn of events that has left the Catholic community in Delta State reeling, Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, a dedicated servant of God and a pillar of faith for many, collapsed and passed away while delivering a powerful homily during the New Year's Eve Mass on December 31, 2025. The incident, which unfolded at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Boji-Boji Agbor, Ika North Local Government Area, sent shockwaves through the congregation and beyond, reminding everyone of the fragility of life even in moments of spiritual celebration.

Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma, often affectionately called Fr. Steve by those close to him, was no ordinary clergyman. At 63 years old, he had devoted his entire adult life to the church, serving as the Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist and as the Regional Vicar of the Agbor Region within the Issele-Uku Diocese. His sudden death during the midnight Mass—a time meant for reflection, gratitude, and hope for the coming year—has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from parishioners, fellow priests, and the wider community in Delta State. Searches for "Catholic priest collapses during Mass" and "Rev Fr Stephen Chukwuma death" have surged online as people seek to understand and honor this man's legacy.

Born on June 5, 1962, in the bustling town of Agbor, Fr. Chukwuma's journey into priesthood began in his childhood home in Akumazi-Umuocha, a serene community in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State. Growing up in a region known for its rich cultural heritage and strong Catholic roots, young Stephen was immersed in faith from an early age. As a boy, he served as an altar server at the very church where he would later meet his untimely end—St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. This early exposure to the rituals and rhythms of Catholic worship ignited a passion that would define his life. Family and friends recall him as a quiet yet determined child, always eager to help during services and showing a natural inclination toward spiritual matters.

His educational path reflected this calling. After completing his primary education at Ngala Primary School in Agbor, he moved on to Ika Grammar School, where he excelled academically while nurturing his vocational aspirations. By 1982, at the age of 20, he made the bold decision to enter the seminary, a step that many in his community saw as a natural progression. His formation years were rigorous and transformative. He spent his Spiritual Year at St. Paul’s Missionary Seminary in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, a place renowned for shaping young men into disciplined disciples of Christ. Following that, he pursued his priestly studies at SS Peter and Paul Major Seminary in Bodija, Ibadan, one of Nigeria's premier institutions for theological education. There, under the guidance of experienced mentors, he delved deep into philosophy, theology, and pastoral care, graduating in 1990 with a solid foundation that would serve him well in his ministry.

Ordained a priest in 1990 by the then Bishop Anthony Gbuji for the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, Fr. Chukwuma's career was marked by unwavering commitment and versatility. He wasn't just a preacher; he was a builder of communities, a counselor to the troubled, and a leader who inspired others to deepen their faith. His first assignments took him across various parishes in Delta State, where he left an indelible mark. At St. Brigid’s Parish in Asaba, he focused on youth programs, helping young people navigate the challenges of modern life through Bible studies and community outreach. Parishioners there remember him for his approachable demeanor—always ready with a smile and a listening ear, even during tough times.

From Asaba, he moved to All Saints Parish in Onicha-Ugbo, where his legal background—he held a barrister's qualification—came in handy. Fr. Chukwuma wasn't your typical priest; he combined his theological expertise with legal knowledge, often advising on matters of justice and human rights within the church context. This unique blend made him a respected figure, especially in disputes involving land or family issues common in rural Delta State. Later, at St. Michael’s Parish in Ubulu-Uku, he spearheaded initiatives for the poor, organizing food drives and educational workshops that empowered local families. His work extended beyond parish boundaries; he served as Rector of St. Felix Minor Seminary in Ejeme-Aniogor, where he mentored aspiring priests, instilling in them the values of humility and service. Additionally, as Dean of the St. John of the Cross Spiritual Year campus in Ekpoma, Edo State, he oversaw the spiritual formation of seminarians, drawing from his own experiences to guide them through the demanding path to ordination.

Throughout his ministry, Fr. Chukwuma embodied the essence of what it means to be a shepherd in the Catholic tradition. In Delta State, where Catholicism thrives amidst diverse ethnic groups like the Ika people, his role as Regional Vicar of Agbor Region was pivotal. He coordinated pastoral activities across multiple parishes, ensuring unity and fostering interfaith dialogue in a region occasionally marked by communal tensions. His homilies were legendary—thought-provoking, scripture-based, and laced with real-life anecdotes that resonated with everyday Nigerians. Topics like forgiveness, resilience in the face of economic hardships, and the importance of family values were staples in his preaching. Many who attended his Masses spoke of feeling uplifted, as if his words were a balm for their souls.

The fateful night of December 31, 2025, started like any other New Year's Eve service. The church was packed with worshippers eager to bid farewell to the old year and welcome 2026 with prayers and hymns. As the clock ticked toward midnight, Fr. Chukwuma ascended the pulpit, his voice steady and full of conviction. He was in the midst of his homily, perhaps reflecting on themes of renewal and God's grace, when he suddenly faltered. Eyewitnesses described the moment as surreal: one second he was speaking passionately, the next he collapsed, clutching the lectern. Panic ensued as congregants rushed to his aid, but despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after. The news spread like wildfire, with social media buzzing about "priest dies during homily" and "Delta State Catholic tragedy." For many, it was a stark reminder of how even the most devoted lives can end unexpectedly, echoing biblical passages about the unpredictability of our time on earth.

In the wake of this loss, the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku released a poignant statement, signed by its Director of Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Uganwa. The announcement captured the collective sorrow while affirming faith in divine will. It read, in part: "With total resignation to the will of God, the Bishop, Priests, Religious, and Lay Faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku announce the call to glory of Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Steve Chukwuma, which event took place on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Until his death, he was the Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, and Regional Vicar of Agbor Region." The statement went on to highlight his contributions, painting a picture of a man who lived fully for his flock.

To honor his memory, the diocese has outlined detailed burial arrangements, ensuring a dignified farewell that reflects his status and service. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, a Vigil Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Agbor, starting at 5 p.m. This evening service will allow parishioners and loved ones to gather, share stories, and pray for his soul in the very place where he served so faithfully. The following day, Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the Funeral Mass will take place at St. Paul Cathedral in Issele-Uku, commencing at 10 a.m. This grand ceremony at the diocesan cathedral underscores his importance to the broader church community. Immediately after the Mass, interment will occur at the Priests' Cemetery in Issele-Uku, a resting place reserved for those who have given their lives to the priesthood.

As news of "Rev Fr Stephen Chukwuma funeral" and "Issele-Uku Diocese burial" circulates, tributes continue to pour in. Fellow priests describe him as a mentor and brother, while lay faithful recall his kindness—visiting the sick, consoling the bereaved, and advocating for education in underserved areas. In Akumazi-Umuocha, his hometown, elders speak of him as a son who brought pride to the community, bridging traditional Ika customs with Catholic teachings. His death has prompted reflections on health among clergy, with some calling for better medical check-ups for those in demanding roles.

Fr. Chukwuma's legacy extends far beyond his parishes. In a country where faith plays a central role in daily life, his story inspires resilience and devotion. He reminded us that true service isn't about grand gestures but consistent acts of love. As Delta State mourns, the Catholic community finds solace in prayer, believing he now rests in eternal peace. May his soul, through the mercy of God, rest in perfect peace. Amen.

This tragic event also highlights the profound impact of religious leaders in Nigerian society. In regions like Delta State, priests like Fr. Chukwuma are more than spiritual guides; they're community anchors, helping navigate social issues from poverty to youth empowerment. His legal expertise, earned through studies that complemented his priesthood, allowed him to address injustices, making him a voice for the voiceless. Looking back, his life was a testament to perseverance—from his humble beginnings in Agbor to leading major seminaries.

Expanding on his educational influence, as Rector at St. Felix Minor Seminary, he implemented programs that emphasized holistic development, including sports and arts alongside theology. Seminarians under his watch often credit him for fostering a sense of brotherhood that lasts a lifetime. Similarly, at the Ekpoma campus, he introduced retreats focused on mental health, a forward-thinking approach in an era when such topics are gaining traction in religious circles.

The broader implications of his passing during a New Year's Eve Mass add a layer of symbolism. New Year's services are about hope and new beginnings, yet his collapse serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment. In the Issele-Uku Diocese, which covers much of Delta North, his role as Regional Vicar meant coordinating events that brought thousands together, from feasts to pilgrimages. His absence will be felt deeply, but the church's resilience—built on centuries of tradition—will carry on.

For those searching "Delta State priest death 2025" or "Catholic funeral arrangements Nigeria," this story underscores the communal nature of grief in African Catholicism. Vigils and funerals aren't just rituals; they're gatherings that strengthen bonds. As January 27 and 28 approach, expect large crowds, with hymns echoing through Agbor and Issele-Uku.

Rev. Fr. Stephen Chukwuma's life was one of quiet heroism. From altar boy to vicar, he walked a path of faith that touched countless lives. Though gone, his teachings live on, encouraging us all to live with purpose. Rest eternal grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.