My dear Fr. Gary and good people of OLP,

You leave me without words at this show of love. You have demonstrated that you are really a people chosen and bound together by the love of God.

I want to thank you from my heart for the support you gave me on hearing that I was attacked and violated by men of the underworld. Fr. Gary was quick in his response. He made phone calls, sent SMSs and then went ahead to share the sad news with all of you. Most of you have e-mailed, some called and many others expressed their solidarity and compassion on facebook.

Little did I know that it all was not going to end in just consoling words; to help me heal faster, you sent in gifts of money and a parishioner donated a super laptop computer. I am overwhelmed. Just as I was savoring these great gestures, Fr. Gary crowned all with an announcement of his visit. So, OLP gave me care, love, support, healing, money ($3235.00) and presence. What more can anyone ever ask for? So, you have given me all. Thank you so very much. I appreciate you all.

So, sooner than later, I am glad to play host to Fr. Gary. I am hoping to do my best to ensure he enjoys his trip. I have prayed already and made some important arrangements: all aimed at giving him a memorable and palatable hosting. I am sure he will bring you good and interesting news about Nigeria.

Let me also use this nice opportunity to thank you for the bread and board you provided me when I was with you. I tried to be back but the US officials at the consulate here wouldn’t let me. It turned out a very long period of waiting in expectation. However, my bishop engaged me with pastoral work and so I have been willingly and joyfully serving as pastor in a church that can relatively be termed big by our reckoning.
Recently, the bishop has asked me to submit my passport for an Italian visa. So, I might be going to study in Venice in no distant time. I will appreciate your usual support and prayers if this turns out to be my destined place of study.

Whatever and wherever, I still miss OLP. I miss Fr. Gary and will be gratified with his visit. Thank you friends. Thank you beloved ones. You are great. You are wonderful. God blessed you with an awesome pastor with a heart of gold. i never knew i could mean something more than Cleveland Indians. Thank you Fr. Gary. I am eagerly waiting.

I wish you all God’s abundant blessings.
Lots of love and prayers,

Fr. Cyriacus.