Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District and former Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong, has described the late Rev. Fr. Michael Kelong as a man of deep faith who devoted his life to the service of God, the Church and humanity
Senator Lalong stated this when he attended the funeral Mass of the late priest at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral, Shendam, where he joined the Bishop of Shendam Diocese, Most Rev. Davou Dung, members of the clergy, the faithful, family members and friends to bid farewell to the deceased.
According to Senator Lalong, Rev. Fr. Kelong made remarkable contributions to peacebuilding and reconciliation, particularly in the aftermath of the Yelwa crisis, where he worked tirelessly to promote healing, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence among communities.
He noted that the late priest was also deeply committed to Church planting and devoted enormous time, energy and resources towards establishing and nurturing Christian communities, describing his contributions as a lasting legacy that will continue to impact generations.
Senator Lalong recalled that his last engagement with Rev. Fr. Kelong was barely a week before his passing, when they discussed the progress and completion of a Church project in Nbuan which had been advancing gradually.
He expressed sadness that the priest passed on before witnessing the completion of the project, but said his commitment and sacrifices towards the work of God would remain a source of inspiration to the faithful.
Senator Lalong commiserated with the Bishop of Shendam Diocese, Most Rev. Davou Dung, the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese, as well as the family, friends and associates of the deceased.
He prayed God to grant the late Rev. Fr. Michael Kelong eternal rest and grant the Church and all those mourning his passing the strength and comfort to bear the loss.
