Following the passing of Bishop Oko Bortei-Doku, a prominent executive pastor of the United Denominations from the Lighthouse Group of Churches (UD-OLGC), also known as the Lighthouse Chapel International, numerous individuals have expressed heartfelt memories in his honor.
Known as the children’s pastor who dedicated several decades to leading the youth and children’s wings of the church until his sudden demise, the shockwaves of his death reverberated across the global church community.
In tribute to his life and impactful service, various honor services were conducted in different locations across the UD-OLGC churches.
During the Bishops Honor Service for the late Bishop Oko Bortei-Doku, a dear friend of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, all proceedings were moving smoothly until the presiding bishop began presenting gifts to the bereaved family. Emotional moments unfolded when Bishop Dag was to present the family with the cross that Bishop Oko had worn.
Reflecting on the significant contributions of the late Bishop Oko to the service and work of God, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills shared how, at one point, he had placed his hand on the body of the departed pastor.
In that poignant moment, visibly moved, Bishop Dag expressed deep emotions.
“Just like his older brother said, being in full-time ministry was a big thing to Bishop Oko. He would celebrate the anniversary of his full-time ministry entry with a cake, and with great joy and with other people who came into full-time at the same time. He loved it.
“The cross is a symbol of his sacrifice and his obedience. Bible says Jesus was obedient even obedient to the death of the cross and so this cross symbolises a great son.
Today, when I put my hand on his chest (pauses for a while, filled with emotions) … I just felt to say, ‘Good boy.’ I want to present this cross,” he said.
Bishop Dag Heward-Mills with Bishop Oko in Singapore