Archbishop Msusa calls for oneness as Gogo Teputepu is laid to rest

Archbishop Thomas Luke Msusa of the Blantyre Archdiocese and Bishop Peter  Musikuwa of Chikwawa diocese on Monday led thousands catholic faithful and other people from all walks of life including the member of parliament for Blantyre North Francis Phiso in paying their last respect to Gogo Steria Teputepu who died in the wee hours of Sunday.

tBefore the body of Gogo Steria  -who has been a long serving Catholic faithful, was interred, His Grace Thomas Msusa also led the people and mourners into a celebrant Holy Mass for the departed mother, who was a teacher and an adviser to many.

Speaking at the graveyard, Archbishop Musa called the faith and communities to remain united and to be of assistance to each other.
“We need to help each other to enhance our spiritual lives, we need to love each other and work together as people of God. In such a way there will be oneness.

“I am happy to see different faces from other churches who are here attending the funeral ceremony; we need to advance that spirit, lets help one another in good and bad times. If we continue to show such inspirations then there will be uniqueness and togetherness among us,” said Msusa.

While Fr. Jean Marie of Lilangwe Parish said Gogo Steria Teputepu was teacher, loving mother and a good adviser and that she dedicated her life to God.

“She used to encourage and advise me as her own son. She was conversant with roles of the priests could advise and we could always go to her to seek direction on important issues. She was of assistance to many. I ask God to receive her,” said Fr. Mari, before crowning his homily with mother Mary’s hymn ‘Ali m’manja mwa Maria’.

In condolence message, Fr. Simbota described the demise of Gogo Steria Teputepu as shocking and a big blow to him, the family and the entire congregation of Lilangwe Parish.

“She was supportive and I regarded her as my mum. I was no stranger here because everyone knew me here because of her. She continued advising me on my priesthood now and again. Today am speechless and I just ask God Almighty to be with her all the time,” said Fr. Simbota.

He further challenged the people of Lilangwe and those who attended the funeral ceremony to have faith in God saying it was God who offered free life to Gogo Steria and that the same God will receive her soul and lead her to internal peace.