Tragedy Strikes Massachusetts Parish as Nigerian Priest, 54, Dies Amidst Return Order

The Catholic community in Massachusetts is currently grieving the sudden passing of a Nigerian-born priest who had recently informed his congregation about the impending conclusion of his ministry and his imminent return to Africa.

Reverend Benjamin Okwy Madu, affectionately known as Father Ben, passed away on Thursday evening, July 2nd, at the age of 54. He had dedicated over four years of service to Holy Family Parish and Our Lady of Good Voyage Parish, a detail confirmed in a Friday message from Pastor Reverend James M. Achadinha. Achadinha further stated that Father Ben's priestly service spanned nearly a quarter of a century. Additionally, he held the position of chaplain at Salem Hospital.

His visa, according to information from the Archdiocese of Boston, was scheduled to expire later in July. Consequently, he faced the threat of deportation, a situation influenced by the anti-immigration policies of Donald Trump's administration. While originally slated to leave by the close of July, Father Ben had received an earlier directive from his Bishop in the Diocese of Abakaliki to return to Nigeria sooner. Prior to his passing, both the Archdiocese of Boston and his devoted parishioners had initiated petitions and collaborated with immigration attorneys in an attempt to prevent his forced return to Nigeria. However, these collective efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful.

Archbishop Richard G. Henning, in a statement forwarded to NewsCenter 5, conveyed: "We extend our prayers and heartfelt condolences to his family, brother priests and friends in Nigeria as well as the many people Fr. Benjamin Madu ministered to here in Cape Ann and at Salem Hospital."

Achadinha, in his statement, added: "As more information becomes available about Father Ben's tragic passing, I will share it with our parishioners." He further urged, "Until then, I invite you to join me in praying for the soul of Father Ben, for his grieving family and friends all around the world, and for all who mourn the loss of this good man and holy priest."

Father Ben's demise occurred just days after the parish had released what was referred to as his farewell message to his congregation. In his poignant message, he wrote: "I will miss the home I found away from home, a mother far from my mother, a father far from my father, and a people far from my own people." Father Ben detailed in his communication that he had first arrived in the United States eight years prior, and was now facing a mandatory return to Africa. He expressed his sentiments in a statement, saying: "Sincerely, it is not my wish to return home right now, but circumstances beyond my control have warranted that my time in the United States come to an end. My heart is broken, yet my joy remains."

Congregants in the U.S. have since taken to Facebook to express their profound love for him and their deep sorrow over his unexpected departure. A Mass in remembrance of Father Ben was observed by The Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 4th, at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church in Gloucester.