Bali Nine Funeral — Andrew Chan Laid To Rest; Brother Michael Reads Andrew's Self-Penned Eulogy [Video]

Michael Chan, older brother of executed Bali nine ringleader Andrew Chan, said in a speech during Andrew’s funeral service that “people deserve second chances in life.” He referenced to the fact that during Andrew’s detention, he had been rehabilitated and converted to Christianity. For many years a ringleader, Chan eventually became a pastor.

The older brother’s message tackled views such that, having a burden, no matter how heavy, is not a hindrance to reformation. Everyone has a chance to become a better person. Grieving, Michael recalled memories with his deceased brother like having petty arguments on rugby league teams. He became more sentimental in his speech and shared that while before, Andrew looked up to Michael, now, it is Michael who looks up to Andrew.

Do Not Judge

Andrew Chan was courageous, full of strength and had peace, beauty and joy. Such was the description of Minister David Soper from Salvation Army as he led family, well-wishers and friends in sending off executed Chan to final rest. Chan personally requested his spiritual mentor Soper to spearhead the funeral service at Hillsong Church, Baulkam Hills in Sydney on Friday, May 8.

As Soper paid tribute to Chan, he assured everyone present that Chan joins his maker and at the same time, cautioned those who do not know Andrew — that they should exercise due care in judging. Roper had the chance of counselling Andrew minutes before he was executed by firing squad on April 29.

Soper recalled that when he saw Chan before his execution, he was overwhelmed with his love for him. He said the death that awaited Chan was for a devastating waste.

More Funeral Preparations

Grief was alternated with slight humour as Andrew’s surviving spouse took the turn to speak. Febyanti Herewila-Chan said her departed husband spent more time preparing for his funeral than for their wedding. She narrated that on the final day, her husband prayed “to forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And when they were finally walking towards their execution field and some of the death row convicts had weak voices, it was Chan who urged everyone they can “sing better than this.”

Chan’s funeral was also attended by one of his lawyers, Julian McMahon. As his casket was being carried, 10,000 hymn was played.

You can watch Michael Chan read the eulogy for Andrew below.

Credits: YouTube/ Steven Lula

Below was Mark Soper's message: