Rev. Fr. Micheal Ukah, a Nigerian Catholic priest on a mission in the U.S.,  said that evangelism is his greatest achievement in his 30 years as a cleric.

The Cleric told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in New York after his 30th ordination Mass and Reception at St. Pius X Parish, Rosedale, New York, that he had lived a fulfilled priestly life.

Rev. Fr. Micheal Ukah, a Professor of Philosophy and a lecturer at Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, is also a visiting lecturer on Classics and African Thought at New York University.

“I consider my greatest achievement in the 30 years of my apostolate the number of people whom I have touched positively.

“As a pastor, I have had opportunity of taking care of the students and lecturers in the university.

“I converted a lot of students and lecturers from other religious groups. I have been involved in charitable works, especially among indigent students, paying their fees and other bills.

“It gives me much joy to get people talk about how I positively influenced and mentored them. The work of human development and sanctification makes me happy,’’ he said.

He, however, said the challenges of being an authentic priest could not be overemphasized, acknowledging the divine presence of God in his priestly journey.

“I thank God that He made me His priest. I am very passionate about it and my joy is that in all these challenges, He is always there to sustain and guide me.

“I am constantly conscious of my vacation as a priest, and I pray daily for God to keep me faithful to the vows I took as a priest.

“In my very lowest moments He has been there for me. His promise of divine protection has never failed,’’ he said.

In addition, he said reading of scriptural and spiritual works, not neglecting his divine office or the liturgy of the hours had been his greatest source of strength.

The Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office or the Work of God (Opus Dei), is the daily prayer of the Church, marking the hours of each day and sanctifying the day with prayer.

The Hours are a meditative dialogue on the mystery of Christ, using scripture and prayer.

ALSO READ: Maverick City Music Announces New Album