Rev. Benjamin Okwy Madu, a Nigerian Catholic priest known as Father Ben, died unexpectedly on Thursday, July 2, at age 54, just days after sharing his heartbreak about being ordered to return to Africa from Massachusetts. His death has left parishioners in mourning and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Priest's Ministry and Deportation Order
Father Ben had served Holy Family Parish and Our Lady of Good Voyage Parish for more than four years, according to a message from Pastor the Rev. James M. Achadinha. He also served as a chaplain at Salem Hospital and had been a priest for nearly 25 years. However, his visa was due to expire, and due to the Trump administration's anti-immigration policies, he faced deportation. The Archdiocese of Boston confirmed that his visa was expiring later in July.
Father Ben was scheduled to depart by the end of July but was ordered by his Bishop in the Diocese of Abakaliki to return home earlier. Despite petitions from the Archdiocese of Boston and parishioners, and efforts by immigration attorneys, the attempts to prevent his deportation were unsuccessful.
Farewell Message and Heartbreak
Days before his death, the parish published what it described as his farewell message to parishioners. In it, Father Ben 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." He explained that he had arrived in the United States eight years ago and now had to return to Africa. "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," he wrote. "My heart is broken, yet my joy remains."
Reactions and Memorial
Archbishop Richard G. Henning expressed condolences in a statement: "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." He added that more information would be shared as it becomes available.
Pastor Achadinha said, "As more information becomes available about Father Ben's tragic passing, I will share it with our parishioners. 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."
Church members in the US have taken to Facebook to express their love and heartbreak over his death. The Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport celebrated a Mass for Father Ben at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church in Gloucester.
