Thatcham mourns former Church curate

A former curate of St Mary’s Church in Thatcham has died.

The Rev Dr Leonard Onugha collapsed and died at his home on the night of Monday, March 20.

The Rev Mark Bennet at St Mary’s Church said: “Leonard was a hugely valued and gifted colleague in his time here.

“To me he was a gifted colleague who could see the light and life of God in the people around him.

“I am sure many will be shocked by the news.

“At the moment I have little to add beyond what is in the message I received.

“We will of course be praying for Leonard’s family and the community he served in Finchampstead and St Mary’s will be open at the usual timed for private prayer or to light a candle.”

Mr Onugha had served as rector of Finchampstead and California in the Diocese of Oxford since 2021.

He was ordained Deacon in 2018 and priested in 2019, after which he served his curacy, firstly in the benefice of Thatcham and then also as an Associate Minister in Emmer Green, Reading.

Bishop of Oxford Dr Steven Croft and Bishop of Reading Olivia Graham said: “Our prayers are with all those who are affected by this terrible and unexpected loss.

“We understand that this news will come as a shock to many of you who knew and worked with Leonard.

“The Berkshire area team are available to help during this time if you would like pastoral support.

“We give great thanks for Leonard’s life, his faithful ministry, and his commitment to the Lord. We commend him into the everlasting love of God.”

There is a memorial book at St Mary’s Church for people to write messages of thanks for Mr Onugha’s ministry.