January 2026 Mission Trip Update #2

This second update from Father Festus' mission in Nigeria shares the challenges and blessings of continued medical outreach, as patients seek care despite fear and limited resources.

"Dear brothers and sisters,

I would like to share with you how the second week of our medical outreach went. It was a week

marked by both deep challenge and great grace. Many of the patients who came to see the

medical personnel did so with visible fear in their hearts. The presence and activities of the

terrorist group, Boko Haram, have left people anxious and uncertain, and some were afraid even

to travel to the clinic. Yet, in spite of this fear, they still came, driven by their need for medical

care and by hope that someone cared for them.

In the midst of these difficulties, my heart was filled with joy. It was not easy to organize the

outreach and ensure that everyone had an opportunity to receive a medical checkup and

treatment. The crowd was large, resources were stretched, and the work was demanding. Still,

God gave us strength, and God cannot be outdone! To our surprise, the number of patients who

came to the clinic far exceeded our expectations. People waited patiently, encouraged one

another, and received care with humility and gratitude. Again and again, they asked me to

express their sincere thanks to the parishioners of SS. John and Paul. They know clearly that

without your generosity and support, this medical outreach would not have been possible.

Finally, I must share with you that the need in my village remains very great. People are in need

not only of medical care, but also of food and basic necessities. Unfortunately, our financial

resources are limited, and we are unable to meet every need we encounter. Even so, your support

has already brought hope, healing, and dignity to many lives. We continue to trust in God’s

providence and to do what we can, one person at a time, with grateful hearts for all that you have

made possible. Blessings!

Fr. Festus Ejimadu

Reporting from Owerri, Nigeria"