31/07/2026
Today, as we celebrate the Closing Mass of the Spiritual Year at the Saint Kizitos's Pre-Major Seminary, my heart is filled with profound gratitude to God for the gift of this formative year in the Diocese of Kenema.
This has not been an easy chapter of my journey. As an almost final-year theology seminarian from the Saint Paul's Major Seminary, I encountered moments of challenge, growth, sacrifice, and grace. Looking back, I can confidently say that God has walked with me through the generosity, prayers, and encouragement of so many people.
First, I extend my deepest gratitude the parish clergy and to the parishioners of Immaculate Conception Parish. Thank you for welcoming me into your parish family, for your kindness, your love, your hospitality, and for allowing me to share in your lives during my apostolate. Your faith and support have strengthened me more than words can express. May God abundantly bless each of you for the love you have shown me.
To the formators and Spiritual Year seminarians, thank you for making these past nine months a joyful and enriching experience. It was a privilege to serve as your lecturer, but even more, it was a blessing to journey alongside you as brothers. Your openness, enthusiasm, respect, and fraternity made my time here truly memorable. I pray that the Lord continues to guide each of you as you grow in your vocation and prepare for the mission He has entrusted to you.
Finally, I offer my sincere appreciation to the faithful from Kenema Diocese and my own Archdiocese Diocese of Freetown. Though we were separated by distance, your prayers, encouraging messages, and constant support reminded me that I was never alone. During moments when the road of formation seemed difficult, your words gave me strength to persevere. I remain deeply grateful for your unwavering confidence in my vocation.
To everyone who has prayed for me, encouraged me, corrected me, and accompanied me throughout this year, thank you. You have each become part of the story God is writing in my life. I humbly ask you to continue remembering me in your prayers as I move forward in my formation toward the priesthood.
May the Lord, who is never outdone in generosity, reward you abundantly for every act of kindness you have shown me. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may He continue to bless your families, your communities, and all your endeavors.
Thank you all, and may God bless you richly.
From: Brother Samuel Nyakeh Allieu.
