By Nathan Eyagu 

SERERE DISTRICT — Family members, church leaders, political leaders, and hundreds of mourners gathered in Okodo Village, Kateta Sub-county, Serere District, to celebrate the life of the late retired Rev. Mesulam Abilet, whose burial became a powerful call for faithful living, responsible leadership, and service to humanity.

Rev. Abilet, remembered as a humble servant of God and devoted community leader, was laid to rest at his ancestral home in a ceremony attended by representatives of the Church of Uganda Soroti Diocese, relatives, friends, local residents, and dignitaries. He was also the grandfather of Serere County Member of Parliament, Hon. Omoding Emmanuel.

Throughout the funeral service, speakers paid glowing tribute to the retired cleric, describing him as a man who dedicated his life to God's ministry, family, and community without seeking wealth or public recognition. They said his legacy was reflected in the lives he touched through faith, humility, compassion, and selfless service.

Delivering his remarks as the chief mourner, the Minister for Teso Affairs, Dr. Kenneth Ongalo Obote, urged Ugandans to build lives defined by integrity and kindness rather than material success.

He noted that although Rev. Abilet never occupied high political office or accumulated great wealth, the large number of mourners who turned up to honour him was a testament to the impact of a life lived in service to others.

"It is not about the position you hold or the amount of money you have. What matters most is how you treat people. Rev. Abilet lived a simple life, but he was loved because he was good to everyone around him," Dr. Ongalo said.

He encouraged members of the public to strengthen relationships within their communities and strive to leave behind legacies founded on honesty, compassion, and unwavering service.

In his sermon, Rev. Capt. Philip Maraka, Principal of St. Peter's Theological College Soroti and Chaplain at Halycon High School, Soroti Campus, reminded mourners that death is inevitable and challenged Christians to live lives worthy of God's calling.

He emphasized that eternal life is attained through faithful living and obedience to God while encouraging believers to use every opportunity to serve others.

"There is only one way to have a peaceful death that leads to eternal life with Christ, and that is by living faithfully and doing good while you are still alive," Rev. Maraka preached.

The cleric also called upon parents to remain committed to investing in their children's education and moral upbringing despite economic hardships, saying responsible children become a lasting source of pride for both families and communities.

Rev. Maraka further challenged political leaders to shift their focus from short-term acts of generosity to sustainable service delivery that improves the lives of citizens.

He criticized leaders who prioritize donations during funerals while neglecting essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and community development.

"Most politicians buy simple things for burial grounds but forget about the lives of children at school. Do not be leaders of the dead only, but also leaders of the living," he said.

The funeral concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the late Rev. Abilet's daughter, Stella Rhoda Icullet, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Church of Uganda, Soroti University and its staff, Soroti Health Club, relatives, neighbours, friends, and well-wishers for standing with the family throughout Rev. Abilet's illness, mourning, and burial preparations.

She also paid special tribute to the family's nephew, Hon. Omoding Emmanuel, for his unwavering support, alongside all those who offered prayers, financial assistance, and words of comfort during the difficult period.

As mourners bid farewell to Rev. Mesulam Abilet, speakers agreed that his greatest achievement was not measured by wealth or political influence but by a lifetime of faithful service, humility, and love for others. His life, they said, serves as a lasting reminder that true success is found in purposeful living, unwavering faith, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.