Our hearts are broken.

On February 4, 2026, we said goodbye for now, to our beloved Rev. Dr. Zachariah Chinne (1969–2026). Words feel small for this loss.

He was Salamatu’s faithful and loving husband. He was “Dad” to Ebenezer, Eleazar, and Ezra. Ever-present, gentle, prayerful. He was a son, a brother, a mentor, a pastor, and a friend. He carried people in his heart. He prayed for them and showed up when it mattered.

For decades, he served as an ordained minister and lecturer at ECWA Theological Seminary. He poured himself into students not just teaching theology, but living it. He wrote Men of Gold. He pursued his Ph.D. at Biola University because he longed to serve Christ and His Church more deeply. He never chased titles. He simply wanted to be faithful.

His illness was long and hard. But even there, his trust in God was steady. When his body grew weak, his faith did not. He often spoke of finishing well and by God’s grace, he did. Scripture tells us that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted. Right now, that promise is not poetic to us it is necessary.

Funeral and burial services will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, in Los Angeles County, California. The total estimated cost is $30,000, covering the memorial service, burial, and related expenses.

In the middle of deep grief, these expenses feel overwhelming. If you are able to help, your support would lift a real and heavy burden from this family. And if you cannot give financially, your prayers, messages, and shared memories mean more than we can say.

Please pray for Salamatu and the children that the God of all comfort will hold them close in the days ahead.

Thank you for loving him. Thank you for standing with us.

With love and hope in Christ,

The Chinne Family & Friends

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”