CAPNI sent a message of condolences to the family of the late Father Horst Oberkampf, who is the godfather and founder of relations between the German Lutheran churches and the Eastern churches in Tur Abdin, Iraq, and Syria, which have grown and developed over more than three decades and expanded to include assistance programs in many fields of relief, development, capacity building, identity protection, and others, in addition to delivering the voice of these churches and the reality and suffering of their faithful in the motherland to the sister churches through periodic seminars, books, and publications that he published.
Below is the text of the condolence letter:
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live,
even though they die” John 11:25
Dear Mrs. Oberkampf,
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences to you, your family, and beyour loved upon hearing the news of our brother and Abuna Horst’s passing. We can only imagine the immense grief and sorrow you must be experiencing during this difficult time.
Abuna Horst was an extraordinary individual, whose unwavering faith and compassion touched the lives of countless individuals within our community and beyond. His dedication to serving others, guiding souls, and spreading love and understanding will forever be remembered as a true testament to his character.
Throughout his life and career, Abuna Horst exhibited an unparalleled devotion to his faith, congregation, and Suryoyo people and churches, providing comfort and support to those in need in Tur Abdin, Iraqi Kurdistan, and Syria. His wisdom, kindness, and boundless empathy left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate to have crossed paths with him.
During this mourning period, may you find strength in the cherished memories you shared with Abuna Horst. Remember his smile, wise words, and the countless lives he positively impacted. Although he is no longer physically with us, his spirit will continue to live on through the lives he touched and the love he spread.
We knew him as a friend, mentor, and supporter of CAPNI which without him could not grow and continue to serve the people Abuna Horst loved, prayed for and with them, lived in his heart, embraced them in his life, visited them in their distress to encourage them and give them hope, and being their voice.
CAPNI remembers him every day, and its meeting room has been dedicated to him.
CAPNI shares his grief as he moves to where the righteous and the saints move and remain faithful to his memory in its works and prayers.
CAPNI holds you all in our thoughts and prayers and offers our heartfelt condolences once again.
With deepest sympathy,
Abuna Emanuel Youkhana
Executive Director
24th July 2023
