A Glorious Homegoing: Methodist Church Nigeria Bids Farewell to Elder Hyacinth O. Nwagiriga

“To everything there is a season… a time to be born and a time to die.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Today, an oak has fallen—not in defeat, but in divine ascent.

A Holy Farewell

On Friday, 23rd May 2025, a sacred hush swept across Uba-Agwa, Oguta LGA, Imo State, as the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Owerri, led by Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Uzochukwu Kanu JP, laid to rest one of her finest elders—Elder Hyacinth Okechukwu Nwagiriga.

His was a life of quiet power, deep integrity, and unwavering devotion to God and the Church.

A Life That Preached Without a Pulpit

Elder Nwagiriga served not only as Local Church Steward 1 at St. John’s Methodist Church, Ikenegbu, but also as Diocesan Treasurer 1 and President of the Diocesan Men’s Fellowship. His stewardship was more than administrative—it was spiritual, guiding others through wisdom, prayer, and example.

He was a peacemaker, a mentor, and a spiritual father whose legacy is carved into the hearts of the faithful.

A Service Befitting a Servant

The funeral service, led by Very Rev. Iheke C. Okereke, was marked by solemn tributes, hymns, and heartfelt reflections. His Lordship Rt. Rev. Geoffrey U. Kanu JP preached a sobering homily titled “The Journey Through Life,” urging everyone to live in readiness for eternity.

> “Death is not the end; it is a divine transition. Are you prepared for your appointment with God?”

Dignitaries in Attendance

Among those who came to honour this gallant soldier of the Cross were:

•Very Rev. Chikaodiri Eke – Diocesan Synod Secretary

•Very Rev. J.O.C. Dimgba – Presbyter, Wesley Circuit

•Very Rev. Nelson Onuigbo – Host Minister

•The Rev. S. N. Agbo – Principal, Methodist High School

•The Rev. Kingsley Olung – Bishop’s Chaplain

•Very Rev. Uchechukwu Christopher – Presbyter, City Central Circuit

•The Rev. Anthony Okechukwu Onuoha – Grace MCN Ihiagwa

•Very Rev. Diligent Chidi Ogubuike – Diocesan Evangelism Minister

•Elder C. C. Chikezie – Orji Circuit Steward 1

•Elder Chinedu Mbahaotu – Men’s Fellowship

•Bro Jude Nwaota – Diocesan YMF President

•Elder Chukwuemeka Kanu – Diocesan Treasurer 2

…and a host of others whose lives were deeply touched by his life and ministry.

A Legacy That Lives On

Though Elder Nwagiriga has departed this earthly realm, his impact endures. His unwavering faith, humble service, and godly counsel live on through the people he raised, the prayers he offered, and the lives he shaped.

He wore no earthly crown—but now wears one of righteousness in glory.

Heaven’s Gain, Earth’s Goodbye

The songs, the prayers, the tears—all bore witness to a man who walked with God. As the final hymn rose—“When the saints go marching in”—we knew: this was not a farewell, but a coronation.

Sleep on, noble elder. Sleep on, faithful steward of God. Until the trumpet sounds.

By The Rev. Onyemaechi Charles Uruakpa

Methodist Media, Owerri