Funeral services were held on Jan. 9, 2009 for Rev. Andrew Elisa, bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sudan (ELCS), who was called to eternal glory on Dec. 31. Large crowds of pastors, parishioners, government leaders and townspeople came to pay their respects to the man who founded the ELCS 15 years ago.
The funeral procession was led by Rev. Edward Sunge Nzeme, ELCS general secretary, and Rev. Dr. Anssi Simojoki, LHF vice president for Africa. Rev. Simojoki delivered the funeral sermon (click here to read his sermon).
"[Rev. Elisa] could not be intimidated or brought to deviate from Lutheran doctrine and its ecclesiology," Rev. Simojoki said. "These were, to him, the treasure in the field and the rare pearl that were finally found. This was, for him, more precious than any treasures of life."
Liturgists and lectors were Rev. Claude Houge, LCMS area director in Nairobi; Rev. Japhet Dachi, rector of the Concordia Lutheran Institute for the Holy Ministry; Rev. Nzeme; and Rev. Nicholas Kumbo Louis, pastor of the Yambio Lutheran church and dean of the seminary. Nine pastors who serve ELCS congregations made up a special honor guard.
Rev. Elisa’s earthly remains were buried on the premises of the Yambio Lutheran church. He is survived by his wife, Linda, and their four children: Hipai, 19; Nako, 17; Zereda, 15; and Zaniwe, 8.
The Holy Spirit worked mightily through Rev. Elisa to establish the ELCS. Fifteen years ago, the Lutheran Heritage Foundation sent Andrew Elisa five copies of Luther's Small Catechism and a Book of Concord. Excited by what he read, Andrew eagerly shared this good Lutheran doctrine with everyone he met.
Today, there are more than 80 Lutheran churches, five Lutheran elementary schools and two kindergartens located throughout Sudan, attended by more than 15,000 baptized Lutherans. More than a dozen men attend the seminary in Baguga, studying to become the faithful shepherds of these people.
“I’ve always been led by faith, full of optimism,” said Rev. Elisa in a 2005 interview, as he reflected on the incredible growth of the ELCS. “If I think of something, I just want to do it, and I do it. I don’t doubt. Some elements of pastoral practice were central in my thinking: 1. How do I shepherd the flock of God? 2. How do I reconcile the people of God? 3. How do I evangelize the people of God? 4. How do I show love to these people? I’d also conceived the idea that our success would be based only on our commitment to the Word of God. It's God's doing.”
“In my eyes Andrew is a hero of the faith and bold confessor of Christ,” said Rev. Richard Nuffer, a friend of the Elisa family and a member of the LHF Board of Directors. “He was a Lutheran pioneer in Sudan. I am glad God put LHF and Andrew together. Thanks be to God! Andrew now knows the true peace that passes all understanding.”
"I met Rev. Elisa four years ago, when he stayed in my home and preached at my congregation in Elgin, Illinois," remembered Rev. James Fandrey, LHF executive director. "Everyone was impressed with his commitment to bringing the Gospel of peace to the people of Sudan and his insistence on a proclamation that is consistent with both the Bible and the Lutheran Confessions.”
Rev. Elisa first fell ill in October. After consulting with several doctors over the next few weeks, he was diagnosed with a glioma (tumor) in the brain stem.
“We received this news with great sadness and convey our deepest sympathy to Linda and the children,” said Rev. Robert Rahn, LHF founder and former executive director. “Andrew was one of those rare leaders whose ability manifested itself in the rapid growth of the ELCS these past 15 years. He had a deep concern for developing a church body that was faithful to the Word and the Lutheran Confessions. While sadness fills our hearts, we yet rejoice in the victory that is his in being granted eternal life.”
Memorials to help cover the expenses of his funeral and medical care are being received by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. To send a gift, click on the link at the left, or send your donation to LHF at 51474 Romeo Plank Rd., Macomb, Michigan 48042. If sending a check, please note "Andrew Elisa Memorial" on the memo line.
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on! Yes, says the Spirit, let them rest from their hard work, for what they have done accompanies them.” Rev. 14:13