A service to celebrate the life of Fiona Beevers and her special contributions to our diocese and our link diocese of Sudan has taken place at Bradford Cathedral.
Fiona was a longstanding member of the Bradford Cathedral congregation, head teacher, schools adviser for the diocese, and Principal of Unity High School in Khartoum, who died on 11th April.
In a moving eulogy provided by Most Reverend Ezekiel Kondo, Archbishop of Sudan, he wrote how Fiona’s deep Christian commitment should serve as “an example for many.”
The full text may be read below:
"Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them!" (Revelation 14:13) Dear Friends in Jesus Christ Our Saviour. We have gathered here at Bradford Cathedral to celebrate the life and service of Fiona Beevers.
I knew Fiona since 1990s during one of her exchange visits between the Diocese of Bradford then, now The Diocese of Leeds and the Episcopal Church of Sudan. Since then, we have been in contact until her final days of her life. On behalf of the Episcopal Church of Sudan, Bishops, Clergy and Christians in the Sudan, and on behalf of the members of Unity High School Council in Khartoum, teachers, staff and students. Particularly, the English-Speaking Congregation of All Saints Cathedral Khartoum where she was a regular worshipper and Reader.
My deepest condolences to the family, relatives and friends in the Bradford Cathedral and the entire Diocese of Leeds for this great loss. Having spent two years (August 2019 - July 2021) as Principal of Unity High School; Fiona was known to be humble, diligent and gentle but firm in dealing with important matters. She was well organized person and with deep faith in God. As the Secretary to the Executive Committee and the Council of Unity High School, she had great respect to all.
Fiona’s time as Principal was a challenging time. This was the time of Sudanese uprising where demonstrations in Khartoum were on daily basis and then followed by Covid 19. At this challenging time, Fiona managed to lead the school until students completed their studies. Fiona was one of the best Principals I have worked with since 2004 as the Chair of the Council. She left the school well organized though it was vandalized during the on-going war in Sudan. Her contribution to ECS, her faithful service as educator and mentor, will be remembered in the years to come by ECS and the Sudanese people in general.
May her life and her faithful service be an example for many. Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them!" (Revelation 14:13) May her soul rest in peace and rise with Christ in glory.”