As family, friends, and loved ones gathered on Wednesday to bid a final farewell to businessman Renaldo…

As family, friends, and loved ones gathered on Wednesday to bid a final farewell to businessman Renaldo Thomas Pickering, emotions ran high as a local pastor delivered a heartfelt sermon, offering words of faith and comfort to those struggling with the pain of his tragic loss. Drawing from the Holy Bible, the pastor reminded mourners that while death brings profound sorrow, God’s promises offer hope, peace, and strength to those left behind. He shared several scriptures reflecting on the reality of life and death, encouraging those in attendance to find comfort in God's presence during seasons of grief and to hold on to the promise of eternal life. Pickering was among those aboard the MV Barima when it sank on July 18. He had been traveling to Port Kaituma, Region One, where he planned to sell dry goods.