Tribute by
The University Interdenominational Church, UCC
The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands. The righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter peace; they find rest as they lie in death – Isaiah 57:1-2.
We were filled with awe and deep sorrow on hearing of Sis. Christie’s unexpected passing on to glory. Although, we knew there would always be a parting; we did not perceive it to be sudden and would require us to write a tribute for a dear sister as Mrs. Akwesi. Hmmm, parting is indeed painful, but we console ourselves with the fact that nothing happens on the blind side of God. It is for this reason that we are unable to question God on how He conducts His plans. Thus, amid our flooding tears, we are encouraged and consoled that we need no answers at why God allows this passing of our sister; God knows best. We, therefore, join Paul in his epistle to the Corinthians when he indicated “O death where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory? – 1 Cor. 15:55; “which man lives and shall not die; or can deliver himself from the power of the grave? – Psalm 89:48”
Sister Christie was a full-fledged member of the University Interdenominational Church (UIC) at UCC. She joined the Church over three decades ago and has since contributed her quota as a devout child of God to the growth and development of the church. She got involved in all activities of the church. We noted with admiration her devotion to Christian principles through her church attendance and participation in church activities. We found her to be hospitable, affable and generous. These virtues made her stand out, displaying a calm and quiet disposition; always wearing a smile. She was jovial, polite and understanding. She was always ready to help where there was the need.
Her attendance to church services was lately stalled due to ill-health. She had a particular place she sat when she was in church- near the staircase. The seat on which she sat is a reminder of her absence from the group she occupied the area with.
Sis. Christie loved God. She was God-fearing. She contributed to the church’s projects through her regular payment of tithes, annual thanksgiving offerings and other offerings that were expected of a church member. During one of the church’s “Prayer fast” programmes, she had the Holy Ghost baptism. She trusted God for a total healing and she realised the touch of God when she experienced the Holy Ghost baptism. It was a great joy to see the improvement in her health status from then. Yes, her joy was unimaginable. She exhibited the gifts of the Holy Spirit and could walk to the front to take communion herself rather than pastors taking it to her corner in the congregation. Sis. Christie was the epitome of her name-Christiana. She loved God with all her heart. She understands the times and seasons of God’s purpose in her life and that of her children. She trusted God to make a way where there was no way. Aww! Sister, you will be remembered for the joy you expressed even in challenging times as a mother.
Now that a golden heart has stopped beating and hardworking hands have been put to rest, our hope is anchored in the truth that on the resurrection day as we keep faith; we will be raised with Sister into eternal joy with the almighty. Sister Christie, fare thee well, take a well-deserved rest, your memory will be preserved with us forever.
Gone out of sight but never from memories. Rest well dear Sister. Amen.