When did you first feel called to the priesthood and what prompted that?

Initially I wasn’t keen on becoming a priest, since my elder brother was already in the seminary preparing for the priesthood. My one desire was to go to university and study to become a lawyer. But a short dramatic event ensued, and I found myself in the seminary (a long story for another time!). 

 

​Moving half way round the world is a big step for anyone ... what made you take on the challenge?

Despite my humble background, I have been privileged to have travelled to a couple of countries both in Africa and the west. When my bishop asked if I would consider a mission in Scotland, I gladly obliged. This is in appreciation of the enormous work of evangelisation that the Scottish and Irish missionaries did in Nigeria. Thanks to them I am a priest. Though uncertain of what to expect, I accepted the challenge ... though I was warned about the cold!​

 

Apart from the cold (!) what first struck you about Scotland?

My first week in Scotland was one of the craziest experiences I ever had! The cold really drove me mad and sick, thinking I won’t survive a week here. But what kept me going was the support and encouragement I got from the priests I met. The people here are lovely and kind.​

 

How do you describe Scotland and Helensburgh to your family and friends back home?

Scottish people are exceptionally hospitable, kind and always ready to assist. Helensburgh is beautiful and I always exalt it before my friends and family back home. I am truly lucky to be working here with wonderful and generous parishioners. ​What's the biggest or most significant thing you have learned since arriving here?I have learnt how to turn on and off the heating system ( hahahaha). Coming from an extremely hot environment, I guess you understand what I mean. Secondly, understanding the accent. I was always scared and frustrated having to pick the telephone to talk to somebody on the other end. Most times I ended up not understanding what was being “communicated”. But now, I am a wee Scotsman :)

 

​As we approach the 'second time' of doing things, what are you most looking forward to?

It’s been a difficult first year of learning, and I can't believe that I have survived one year in Helensburgh already, as the administrator of both parishes of St. Joseph’s and St. Gildas.  I thank my PPC and all parishioners for their show of love, solidarity and understanding. It’s difficult for me to tell where I have done well or where I haven’t given my best. I am hoping for a greater collaboration with all volunteers to improve the life of the parish. I am hoping to get more young people involved in the life of the parish.​

 

What advice would you give your 10-year old self now, if you could?

Advice to my 10-year old self? Probably I should have spent time learning about music and piano. I had the opportunity to learn growing up but never took it. Now I look back and keep knocking myself, because I love to sing but haven’t got a great voice.​

 

What words of advice or inspiration would you want the parish here to take to heart?

Let us focus more on being a supportive family. We are a pilgrim church, full of imperfections. When we walk and work together, we shall build a formidable parish community.​

 

Thank you.