How a Catholic Priest Slumped and Died While Delivering Homily in Delta Church

The Catholic community in Delta State has been thrown into deep mourning following the sudden death of a parish priest who reportedly collapsed while delivering a homily during Mass, a tragic incident that has shocked worshippers and clergy alike.

The late priest, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephen Chukwuma, was serving as the Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Boji-Boji Agbor, in Ika South Local Government Area, when the incident occurred during the New Year's Eve Mass.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that Fr. Chukwuma, aged 63, was in the middle of his homily when he suddenly slumped at the altar, causing panic among parishioners. Immediate efforts were reportedly made to assist him, but he was later confirmed dead, turning what was meant to be a solemn crossover service into a moment of grief and disbelief.

The priest's death occurred in the presence of congregants who had gathered to usher in the New Year, making the incident even more emotionally devastating for the faithful.

Until his passing, Fr. Chukwuma also served as the Regional Vicar of the Agbor Region in the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku, a role that placed him in a key leadership position within the Diocese.

He hailed from Akumazi-Umuocha in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State and was widely described as a dedicated priest who devoted his life to pastoral service and the spiritual growth of his parishioners.

The Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku officially confirmed his death in a statement signed by the Director of Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Charles Uganwa.

According to the statement, the Diocese announced the priest's passing with "total resignation to the will of God,ÔÇØ noting that he died on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, while actively serving the Church.

The Diocese also released details of the burial arrangements, signaling the start of formal mourning across parishes in the region.

According to the Diocese:

Tuesday, January 27, 2026: Vigil Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor by 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 28, 2026: Funeral Mass at St. Paul's Cathedral, Issele-Uku by 10:00 a.m., followed immediately by interment at the Priests' Cemetery, Issele-Uku

The sudden passing of Fr. Chukwuma while actively preaching has sparked emotional reactions across Delta State and beyond, with many parishioners describing it as a painful reminder of the fragile nature of life, even in moments of sacred duty.

Church members and community leaders have continued to pour out tributes, describing the late priest as humble, committed, and deeply devoted to the service of God and humanity.