Coming to Ireland, I was filled with joy but not without some anxiety and fear of uncertainty. However, relief came when I got a placement in Mount Merrion Parish, to also serve in Kilmacud and Clonskeagh Parishes. Thanks to Archbishop Diarmuid Martin. I must say that the way I was able to integrate into the parish was smooth, quick and easy. This wouldn’t have been possible if not for the open-mindedness and support of the Parish Priest, Fr. Tony Coote, Frs. Paddy, Brian and Conleth. Also, the warm reception I got from the parishioners was helpful. Thanks to you all. I have not only come to Ireland for studies, I have also come to learn about and experience the land and people of the missionaries who brought the catholic faith to South-Western Nigeria where I am from. Many thanks to the Fathers of the Society of African Missions (SMA), Irish Province whose missionary endeavours produced the likes of me. It was a great delight for me to have served in the parishes of Mount Merrion, Kilmacud and Clonskeagh for the past two years. I have been enriched through the pastoral administration of the parishes, people’s appreciation of the Sacraments and the faith history of the people of Ireland. Going back to Nigeria is filled with mixed feelings. I am happy to go home to my family and friends, but I am not so happy to leave the people of God in Ireland, whom I am getting used to already. It is not easy to say good bye, but it must be said. I thank everyone who has made my stay in Ireland worthwhile. I thank especially all the parishioners of the three parishes for allowing me to journey with them, teaching me few Irish words. Go raibh maith agat. Fr. Clement ‘Femi Olaniyan
