Oyam business community urged to embrace humility, faith after loss

27 May 2025, 4:32 pm

By Eman yonah Oruk

The business community in Oyam has been challenged to remain humble and not to let their focus rest solely on wealth.

This message was delivered today by Rev. Robert Edinga, the Vicar and Archdeacon of Oyam Urban Archdeaconry, during a gathering at St. Peter’s Church Anyeke where Over 1,000 mourners had come together to pay their last respects and offer prayers for the late Stalon Olong, a prominent businessman in Oyam district and the chairperson of the business community in Oyam town council.

In his sermon, Rev. Edinga urged the business community in Oyam to refrain from speculating about the cause of Olong’s death in ways that contradict the truth. He emphasised that Olong’s passing speaks silently to the business community and the entire people of Oyam, reminding them to remain humble in all their endeavors and to put their trust in God as their personal savior.

Rev. Edinga further stressed the importance of hard work and perseverance but reminded the mourners that life is short. He encouraged them to avoid conflicts within the community and instead foster unity and mutual understanding.

Concluding his sermon, Rev. Edinga referenced Deuteronomy 29:29, emphasising that there are secret things known only to God, which must be followed with faith.

Rev. Hassa Wacha of Anwangi parish expressed his shock at Olong’s passing, urging all believers to prepare spiritually for their journey to heaven.

Chairperson Laity of St. Peter’s Church Anyeke, George Oyuru, appreciated Olong’s life and contributions, noting that he had positively impacted various communities in Oyam, including religious leaders, widows, orphans, and persons with disabilities.

Wacha Tommy, the Vice Chairperson of the Business Community in Oyam town council, commended the entire business fraternity and the broader community for their cooperation during this difficult time. He likened Olong to a “great tree” that had provided shelter to many under his strong leadership.

Hon. Nelson Oloa, Chairperson of the Burial Organising Committee, urged those who may have had disagreements with Olong to use this moment for reconciliation, emphasising that death is inevitable for everyone.

The late Stalon Olong was born in Apac district on November 11, 1977, and passed away on May 19, 2025, at Anyeke Health Centre IV in Oyam district at the age of 48. His burial is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at Ocala village in Iceme subcounty, Oyam district.