The Catholic community in Massachusetts and many Nigerians in the diaspora are mourning the death of Reverend Father Benjamin Okwy Madu, a Nigerian Catholic priest who died by suicide in the United States just days before he was due to return to Nigeria at the end of his pastoral assignment.
Father Madu, who was 54 and originally from Abor in Enugu State, died on Thursday, July 2, 2026, according to church officials. His death came only days before the 25th anniversary of his priestly ordination, which he would have celebrated on July 7.
The tragic loss has prompted an outpouring of tributes from parishioners, fellow priests and members of the Nigerian Catholic community who remembered him for his compassion, humility and commitment to ministry.
Farewell Message Before His Death
In the days leading up to his death, Father Madu published a farewell message in his parish newsletter after learning that his ministry in the United States would conclude because of visa regulations.
In the message, he described his sadness about leaving the community where he had served since 2022.
“Sincerely, it is not my wish to return home right now, but circumstances beyond my control have warranted that my time in the United States come to an end.”
He also reflected on the relationships he had built during his time in Massachusetts and wrote about how much he would miss the parish community and the coastline where he often spent time after celebrating Mass.
The church has not stated that his planned return to Nigeria was the reason for his death.
Ministry in Massachusetts
Father Benjamin Madu joined the Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport in April 2022.
During his assignment, he served as an assistant priest at Holy Family Parish and Our Lady of Good Voyage Parish, where parishioners described him as a warm and compassionate pastor.
He also worked as a chaplain at Salem Hospital, ministering to patients and their families during illness and end-of-life care.
Many parishioners remembered his thoughtful homilies, welcoming personality and dedication to pastoral service.
Archdiocese Pays Tribute
The Archdiocese of Boston expressed sadness over Father Madu’s death.
Archbishop Richard G. Henning extended condolences to the priest’s family, friends and fellow clergy in Nigeria and the United States, asking the faithful to pray for all those grieving his loss.
Father Jim Achadinha, pastor of the Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport, also described the late priest as a dear friend whose passing had deeply affected the parish.
A memorial Mass was held at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church on July 4, where parishioners gathered to celebrate Father Madu’s life and ministry.
Remembering Father Benjamin Madu
Father Benjamin Madu is being remembered not only for his years of priestly service but also for the relationships he built within the communities he served.
His death has sparked conversations about the emotional pressures that can affect clergy and the importance of mental health support within religious communities.
Church leaders have continued to encourage prayers for his family, fellow priests and parishioners as they mourn his passing.
