​A Sacred Journey Completed: Ahiara Diocese Mourns, Buries Two Priests Ordained, Laid to Rest Together

-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

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​The Catholic Diocese of Ahiara is in mourning as it bids farewell to two of its revered priests, Very Rev. Fr Christian Paul Egege (81) and Very Rev. Msgr Benjamin Chima (85). In a solemn ceremony held at the Mater Ecclesiae Cathedral in Ahiara Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the two priests—who were ordained on the same day, 53 years ago—were laid to rest side by side.

​The Requiem Mass was presided over by His Grace, Most Rev. Dr Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese and President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria. The service was also concelebrated by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr Augustine Echema, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Aba, and Most Rev. Dr Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, CMF, the grieving Bishop of Ahiara Diocese.

​Both priests were remembered as pioneers in their ministry, known for their deep spirituality, charitable works, and remarkable scholarship. A unique bond marked their lives and service; they were ordained on the same day, April 8, 1972, and were buried together, their earthly journey mirroring their shared commitment to a life of faith.

​The Ahiara Diocese and the biological families of the deceased have asked for continued prayers as they commend the souls of Fr. Chris Paul Egege and Msgr. Ben Chima to God's mercy.

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