In the spirituality of the Messengers of Justice order, self-emptying means modeling Jesus who “…humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a Cross” (cf. Phil 2:6-11, RSV). On Friday, July 23rd, Rev. Sr. Callista Utazi, MOJ made her final journey of self-emptying on earth and passed from the MOJ mission into the embrace of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. She died after a short period of days when symptoms of heart disease appeared and grew progressively worse until her heart failed.
As you can imagine, HEAL founder, Deacon Leo Okonkwo and the whole MOJ community are devastated and heartbroken over the sudden death of their beloved sister. And, I also write this tribute to Callista with a heavy heart, even though I didn’t know her very well. Her dedication to the mission to the poor and marginalized was immeasurable as she witnessed to God’s love with her gentle personality and also with the artistry of her hands.
Sr. Callista was the seamstress for the MOJ order and all the students of Mother Enabler Schools. She designed and created all the school uniforms and the religious habits of her brothers and sisters in the community. This important service she provided will make Callista’s presence sorely missed. But, her devotion to the Lord in the least of his people (Mt. 25:40) and to her Founder and fellow MOJ’s is her greatest legacy, which will live on in our memories and prayers.
Sr. Callista was the seamstress for the MOJ order and all the students of Mother Enabler Schools. She designed and created all the school uniforms and the religious habits of her brothers and sisters in the community. This important service she provided will make Callista’s presence sorely missed. But, her devotion to the Lord in the least of his people (Mt. 25:40) and to her Founder and fellow MOJ’s is her greatest legacy, which will live on in our memories and prayers.
She herself was an abandoned orphan, which meant the MOJ and the poor and marginalized people in our care served as both her spiritual family and only family. In receiving a family and a home, when she had none due to her own abandonment, Callista’s spirit exhibited the love of one who had been forgiven much (Lk. 7:47). This is why, in spite of our sadness now and in the days ahead, all we can do is give thanks to God for Callista’s life, which was such a blessing upon us all!
Pray for Callista’s soul and for this mission, which she loved with her whole heart. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. We will be praying for you Callista! We know you will be praying for us in Heaven!