Perhaps, while reading about the “aura of Archbishop Ekpu ” this morning, two things amongst others would have taken your attention.

Firstly, was the assertion, “in life, you were first in many arenas and in death you remain primus” and secondly, “he will be laid in the mausoleum of the Cathedral Church of the Catholic Province of Benin City”

Surely, just as Archbishop Ekpu was the first indigenous Bishop and Archbishop of Benin City, he is equally the first to be laid as a Bishop in the mausoleum of the Cathedral Church in Benin.

The the question follows, why that, and not in the priests cemetery by the minor seminary. God willing, tomorrow we shall detail on the sequence of the funeral rites of Catholic Archbishops and Bishops but for today, let’s talk of the about Mausoleum.

A mausoleum is a building or structure designed to house the remains of deceased individuals, typically constructed above ground. It can be a standalone building, a chamber, or a tomb within a larger structure, such as a church or cemetery.

Mausoleums are often grand and ornate, reflecting the significance and respect for the deceased.

The term “mausoleum” originates from ancient Greece, specifically from the tomb of King Mausolus (c. 377-353 BCE) in present-day Bodrum, Turkey. The magnificent tomb, built by his widow, Queen Artemisia, was renowned for its grandeur and beauty, becoming a wonder of the ancient world. Over time, the term “mausoleum” became synonymous with any grand tomb or burial structure.

In Catholic tradition, mausoleums are often used to entomb deceased bishops within their cathedral churches. The use of mausoleums for bishops indeed has roots in the early Christian tradition of honoring martyrs.

In the ancient Church, martyrs were revered as heroes of the faith, and their burial sites became sacred places of pilgrimage.

As Bishops were often the leaders of the early Christian communities, they were frequently targeted for persecution and martyrdom. Their courage and willingness to sacrifice their lives for their faith earned them a special place in the hearts of the faithful.

The mausoleum, with its grandeur and solemnity, became a fitting tribute to these martyred bishops. It symbolized the honor and reverence due to their memory, as well as the Church’s recognition of their ultimate sacrifice.

By entombing bishops in mausoleums, the Church continues this tradition, acknowledging their dedication, leadership, and willingness to serve, even unto death. Though not all bishops are martyred, the mausoleum serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by their predecessors, inspiring future generations to emulate their faith and devotion. 

In the case of Archbishop Ekpu, his entombment in the mausoleum signifies not only his remarkable achievements but also his commitment to the faith, mirroring the courage and conviction of the early Christian martyrs.

The placement of a mausoleum within a cathedral also emphasizes the bishop’s role in the life of the Church. It reinforces their importance and provides a visible reminder of their contributions.

By entombing bishops in a mausoleum within the cathedral, the Catholic Church demonstrates its respect and gratitude for their leadership and service. This tradition creates a sense of continuity and connection between the deceased bishop, the living faithful, and the Church as a whole.

But how will this entombment be done? To answer this question, join the thousand of faithful who will be gathered at Holy Cross Cathedral, Benin City, to lay to rest the remains of Archbishop Patrick Ebosele Ekpu from August 21-22, 2024.

Good Night & Thanks for Readings