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Homecoming Ceremony of S. Sarah Ekyoheire in Uganda UBF

“IN ALL THINGS…”

 Ro. 8:28:   And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Shepherdess Sarah Ekyoheire Byaruhanga went to be with the Lord on 25th of June 2016 at the age of 37 years. She was one of the pioneer shepherdess at Kyambogo University.  She is survived by a husband, Ivan. For over two months, Sarah struggled with multiple health problems. Many co-workers had prayed for her every week and she often recovered for some time but then relapsed. She eventually yielded her physical fight to Cancer. Although she had planned to join her co-worker in Norway, this wasn’t possible because of her deteriorating health condition. Her co-worker was able to come back to Uganda and serve her during her last days. 

A memorial homecoming service was held on 29th June 2016 at the Kyambogo Centre. Around 30 co-workers gathered together from both Makerere and Kyambogo Chapters. Sh. Julius delivered the message from Romans 8:28 which was the life Key Verse for Sh. Sarah. Through the message, we were challenged to work during the day for the night is coming. We were reminded to be thankful in ALL things because God is faithful, just and always accomplishes his good and perfect will in all circumstances. We are called ‘according to God’s purpose’. We need to know our purpose, like Sarah did, of serving campus ministry until we return to the Kingdom of God. Her life Key Verse was powerful and consistent with her life. Two personal tributes by Sh. John and Sh. Lillian were also shared. Sh. Barbra sang S. Sarah’s most favourite song. God led Sh. Sarah to the bible in 2007. Msn Samuel Yoo, who was her bible teacher, remembered how she said ‘Amen!’ when they had bible study from John 14:1-2, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.2 In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you”.  

Although we were saddened that such a precious co-worker was taken barely six months after establishing house church, we are thankful for her life and for raising many Kyambogo students as Jesus’ disciples. God has used the life Sh. Sarah as a faithful maidservant for campus ministry. We pray that Kyambogo ministry and Uganda co-workers can always remember her spiritual legacy as a friend, co-worker, prayer mother and shepherdess. 

Steven Sebbale