Tears flow at The Carpenter’s Church as Pastor Nkechi Ene passes on (video)

Michael Adesina

The October 30 church service was a Thursday service unlike any other at The Carpenter’s Church, Port Harcourt, as members gathered expecting a regular worship experience — but left in tears after the heartbreaking announcement of the passing of their beloved presiding pastor, Pastor Mrs. Nkechi Ene.

The atmosphere, which had begun with songs of praise, quickly turned somber when a senior minister in the church, mounted the pulpit to confirm the news many had struggled to believe.

“Pastor Nkechi Ene has went home to be with the Lord,” he said in a trembling voice, his words echoing through the packed auditorium. For a moment, there was silence. Then came the sound of quiet sobs, breaking into wails as members struggled to process the news.

Some fell to their knees, others buried their faces in their hands, while ushers and fellow congregants moved around offering comfort and support.

The church, which Pastor Ene had led for years with deep passion, love, and unwavering faith, seemed to grieve as one body — united in pain but holding onto hope.

“She was more than a pastor to us,” said one long-time member, her voice shaking. “She was a mother, a teacher, a shepherd who cared deeply about every single one of us. It’s hard to imagine this church without her.”

In his address, Pastor Sola Akinwale encouraged members to remain steadfast, drawing strength from the very faith Pastor Ene had taught and lived.

Pastor Akinwale said: “As a church, we look up to, and lean on the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, to comfort and strengthen us. We trust the Father to be to us all that we need Him to be in this season. We receive His grace and healing. Despite the void of her departure, we are grateful to God for an excellent and productive life well lived.”

As the sun set over Port Harcourt, the church community stood united in mourning — yet comforted by the belief that their beloved pastor had simply changed address, from earth to glory.

“She taught us faith, and now that faith is what we must hold on to,” one member said quietly. “We will miss her deeply, but we will keep her legacy alive.”