The Catholic Church is mourning the passing of Fr. Andrea Osman Okello of the Rumbek Diocese, who died on 13 May 2026 in Lakes State, leaving behind a legacy of faithful service and dedication to God and humanity.
In a statement, Bishop Christian Carlassare of the Bentiu Diocese and Pastoral Administrator of Rumbek Diocese described Fr. Andrea as one of the devoted servants of the Church whose life was marked by commitment to priestly ministry and care for the people of God.
“Fr. Andrea Osman Okello devoted his life faithfully to the service of God and his people through priestly ministry, prayer, compassion, and dedication to the Church. His witness of faith, humanity, and love touched many lives and will remain a lasting inspiration to all who knew him,” Bishop Carlassare said.
The bishop added that as the Church mourns his passing, the faithful continue to entrust his soul to God’s mercy.
“As we mourn his passing, we entrust his soul to the infinite mercy of God and pray that Christ, whom he served faithfully on earth, may welcome him into eternal peace and joy,” he added.
Fr. Andrea served as a priest in the Catholic Church under the Rumbek Diocese, a diocese that has continued to play a significant role in pastoral care, peacebuilding, education, and social services in Lakes State and beyond.
Priests within the diocese often serve not only as spiritual leaders but also as advocates for peace and community development in the State that has faced recurring challenges related to conflict and insecurity.
The death of Fr. Andrea comes as a great loss to the Catholic community and many people whose lives were touched by his ministry.
Colleagues, parishioners, and members of the wider Church community are sending condolences messages on online remembering him as a man of faith, compassion, and service.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the diocese.