It is with profound sadness and gratitude to God that our sister Diocese, the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, announce the passing of the Rt. Rev. MSGR Thomas Oleghe, the oldest Catholic priest in Nigeria, who went to be with the Lord today, Sunday 24th November 2024, at the ripe age of 104.
Msgr. Oleghe, a devoted servant of God, was a priest of the Diocese of Auchi. His remarkable life, spanning over a century, was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Lord and His people. And his love for our Mother Mary was obvious from the large rosary beads always handing from his fingers.
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Most Rev. Gabriel G. Dunia, announced the passing of Msgr. Thomas Oleghe in a circular, saying: “With gratitude to God for a life well lived on earth, I hereby inform you of the passage of the Rt. Rev. Msgr. Thomas Oleghe… to the great beyond at about 2:30 am this morning on the 24th of November, 2024.”
The funeral rites for Msgr. Oleghe will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024. We are all invited to join in praying for the repose of his soul, as preparations continue to lay him to rest.
As we pray for the repose of Msgr. Oleghe’s soul, we take comfort in the words of the Psalmist: “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones” (Psalm 116:15). May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
May we too be inspired by Msgr. Oleghe’s example of dedication, service, and devotion to the Lord. May his legacy continue to inspire and guide us as we strive to follow in his footsteps.
Rest in Peace, Msgr. Oleghe. God be with you till we meet again.
