There was an outpouring of emotion at the Sacred Heart Parish when congregants learnt Father Christian Obiekwe would be leaving at the end of July.
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In four short years he's developed a reputation for being a friendly, approachable priest who always makes time for his congregants.
Originally from Nigeria, Father Christian became a true-blue Aussie when he got his Australian citizenship while in Griffith.
He's immersed himself in the Griffith community, giving masses in both English and Italian.
Father Christian learnt Italian from scratch in an effort to connect with Griffith's Italian population - yet another example of how he always goes the extra mile to connect with members of the community.
He's been just as active outside the church, community events, school activities, and youth groups in and around Griffith.
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He'll be packing his bags near the end of July and moving to Albury, where he'll continue working as a catholic priest.
Father Christian will no doubt flourish in the Albury parish; he's an eminently qualified priest who has trained in Wagga, has a masters in philosophy, a bachelor of theology, and the ability to read Latin, Hebrew, and Greek.
He'll be sorely missed by members of Sacred Heart Parish, who will bid a final farewell to him on July 21.
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