A TRIBUTE FROM MR TON VOORTMAN OF THE NETHERLANDS

It was with profound sorrow that I received the news of the passing of my dear friend, Brother Augustine Kubdaar, on 4 January last. Although we were all aware of his illness, his death nonetheless came as a great shock and has deeply affected us all.

From the moment of my first visit to Ghana at the end of 1995, I had the privilege of knowing Brother Augustine in various capacities: initially as a member of the Tumu community, subsequently as Provincial Superior, and most recently as Superior General. Throughout all these years and in each of these eminent roles within the FIC community, I have held him in the highest esteem, both for his personal qualities and for his exemplary leadership.

Brother Augustine distinguished himself by his unwavering commitment and wholehearted dedication to the many development and charitable projects that I was able to realise in Ghana, together with the Rotary Club, in cooperation with other organisations such as PUM, and also in a personal capacity. His engagement, vision, and sense of responsibility were of invaluable importance to the success of these initiatives.

On a more personal level, I will remember him as a warm, compassionate, and genuinely interested friend, who consistently showed sincere concern for my well-being and that of my family. His kindness, wisdom, and friendship meant a great deal to me and will remain with me as a lasting source of gratitude and inspiration.

I will miss him dearly and will forever cherish the many fond memories I have of him. May the Most High, in His infinite mercy, receive him into His heavenly kingdom. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Brother Augustine’s family and to the entire FIC community, and I wish them strength, consolation, and peace as they mourn this painful and irreparable loss.

It is with deep regret that I am unable to be present at the funeral service in Ghana on 21 February. At that same moment, however, I will be united with you in spirit while attending the memorial service at De Beyart in Maastricht.

With deepest sympathy and respect,

Ton Voortman, Amersfoort, The Netherlands