With a heart weighed down in sorrow and a spirit clothed in mourning, we announce the passing into eternal rest of our beloved Archdeacon Lutfi Bilbao.

Truly, a great light has been extinguished among us this day, and a shadow of grief has fallen upon all of Ethiopia. For we have not merely lost a servant of the Church, but an uncle to many, a father to the faithful, and a steadfast pillar whose hands upheld the house of God for more than fifty-six years. His life was poured out in quiet sacrifice, in generosity without measure, and in unwavering devotion to the holy calling entrusted unto him.

From the days of Emperor Haile Selassie until the year 2017 E.C., he stood firm—like a tree planted by the water, nourishing and sustaining the Church through seasons of trial and of grace. By his labor and his faithfulness, the Church was strengthened, and by his example, many were guided in the path of righteousness.
In honor of his enduring service, our Mother Church bestowed upon him the highest elevation within the diaconate, crowning his years of humility and dedication with the sacred rank of Archdeacon. Yet even in honor, he remained humble; even in greatness, he walked as a servant.

Now he has been called from among us, and his place stands empty. Our hearts are heavy, yet we take solace in the promise that the righteous are gathered unto eternal peace.

May the Lord remember him in His kingdom, and may his soul find rest in the bosom of the faithful.

I extend my deepest condolences to all who knew and loved him. Let us, with one accord, lift his name in our prayers, that mercy may be granted unto him, and that light perpetual may shine upon his soul.

by George Gereis