Presbyterian Church in Ireland - Mission Overseas - NEPAL: UMN mourns sudden death of its Director of Programmes

17th May 2011

It is with great sadness that we report the sudden and untimely death of Shaha Bahadur Gurung, Director of Programmes for the United Mission to Nepal (UMN).

He died last night, Monday 16 May, from a heart attack. He was at home with his family at the time.

Needless to say, his sudden and unexpected death is a huge shock to his family and to all his colleagues in UMN. He was 51 years old.

The funeral was held earlier today at Nepal Isai Mandali church, in the Dhobighat area of Kathmandu.

Shaha worked for UMN for the past eight years, and before that he worked with the International Nepal Fellowship (INF) for over 20 years.

In 2003, Shaha said:

"My innermost desire is to encourage churches in the proclamation and demonstration of the Gospel. Proclamation has social consequences and social involvement has evangelistic consequences.

I want to help churches and Christian organisations to build relationships, change values and empower the poor. I envisage these groups tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice, being involved in reconciliation and relief activities.

I want to be with others who take a leading role in realising this vision to transform the nation."

UMN’s Executive Director, Mark Galpin, says:

“It was a privilege to work with Shaha. I greatly valued his wisdom and friendship. Throughout the years he was with INF and UMN he had a profound impact on thousands of peoples’ lives across Nepal and beyond, as he sought to work out his passion for Integral Mission. He will be deeply missed.”

“Thank you for your prayers at this difficult time. Please remember to pray particularly for Shaha’s wife, Samjhana, and their three sons.”

UMN’s Offices have remained shut all day today - Tuesday 17 May - as a mark of respect and to enable members of staff to attend Shaha’s funeral.

Read: INF's Tribute to Shaha Gurung

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