On the South Side, Jesus Promises Eternal Life

“How many of you want eternal life? Raise your hand!” exclaimed Deacon Leo Okonkwo in his mission appeal homily last weekend at St. Dorothy Parish on Chicago’s south side. I raised my hand and looked around. Sure enough, everyone had their hands high in the air! But,...

A Welcoming I’ll Never Forget

I stepped out of the car into the BOMCA courtyard, ready to be received again on this my fourth mission trip to Nigeria.  A little girl named Rosemary, who I know from previous visits, placed a small plant in my hands. Two others wrapped me in a colorful fabric and...

Agricultural Skills for Life

On my first trip to Nigeria in 2014, at the airport, I met a baggage carrier named Jasper who had a university graduate degree. Because of government corruption and lack of connections, Jasper struggled mightily to find employment that matched his level of education...

Violence Creates NYSC Shortage

Last week, I made a one day trip to the Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC to obtain a Visa for my upcoming 4th trip to Nigeria. After my appointment, I attended a lobbying event at the US Capitol on religious persecution in Nigeria. It was hosted by an organization...