Father Ambrose Nkanyimuo Muoneke from Aguluzigbo in Anambra State. Father Nkanyi Muoneke was a teacher, soldier, and a member of the Marist Brothers Congregation. He went to Ireland and obtained a diploma in religious studies. There he met the Vincentians, got his vocation to the Vincentian Congregation which brought him back to Nigeria for his novitiate in September, 1977/1978. In 1978, he started his philosophical studies in the then Bigard Memorial Seminary Ikot-Ekpene, philosophy Campus which is now St. Joseph Major Seminary. After his philosophical and theological studies, he was ordained a Priest in 1986 His first Priestly assignment was to join the retreat team in Oraifite after which he was posted to Ogobia (Benue state) to work in the catechetical center as a teacher from 1989-1991. Later, he became the assistant parish Priest of St. Vincent Parish Ogobia from 1991-1993 after which he was made a parish Priest from 1993-1995. He also worked as assistant parish Priest in Akama- Oghe from 2005-2009.His last active service as a Priest was in this Parish before he retired from active priestly ministry. Father Nkanyi believed that the Word of God becomes flesh in the culture of the people and expressed in the way the people live and the name they give their children. Hence, he called everybody he knew by their native names because those names carry meaning and significance Father Nkanyi was a Christian, Vincentian, and Priest to the core. He served as confessor to many religious men, women, and lay people. He was a good listener whose presence is comforting and consoling. He was the base of every community where he lived. He was present at every community activity because he believed that community life was a vital aspect of his Vincentian life. He was there for communal prayers, meals, and recreation till he was unable to join in the common exercises. He manifested his simplicity, humility, and meekness in his daily life. His strength comes from his prayer life and great devotion to our Lady. He was a disciplined man and always punctual to any activity. He touched the life of many who simply described him as a saint on earth. He was indeed a rare gem. Worldly ambition was never in his mind and he preferred to serve rather than be served, an example of Vincentian virtue. He was a sincere man and there was no duplicity in his life. He was never afraid to tell anyone the truth even when such truth hurts and he will end his argument with "believe it or not!" Obedience was his second nature even when the task looked l ike making him a "burnt offering." Fr Ambrose, we love you but God loves you most. You really taught everyone that crossed your path that life is nothing to hold on to. You taught us to use all that we have to be blessing to others at all times. We shall miss your brotherly love, fatherly advice, your friendly nature, your words of wisdom and above all WE MISS YOU. We pray that the Almighty God will grant you eternal rest. Adieu great Confrere! Adieu an Ideal Vincentian!! Good night, Father Nkanyi, till we meet tE no more. Rest in Perfect Peace. TRIBUTE TO FR. NKANYI (PAPA K) Papa K, as students always call you; I was privileged to have worked with you as your care giver for four years. I worked with you as a seminarian, Deacon and the first two months of my Priestly life. You believed in holiness of life. You detached yourself from everything that was contrary to our Vincentian values. You were a living Saint and the Priesthood of Christ was personified in you. Your presence in the Coviam Theologate house was a great moment to all, both students and Priests. You promised to see me when I return from my first missionary experience, but God chose the path that was best for you. To Him be all glory You appreciated every little act of kindness shown to you especially when we bring the Holy Communion to you. This virtue of gratitude made the Nurses and Doctors in Niger optical and Mother of Christ Hospital always wanting to attend to you each time you came around for check-up Papa K, we love you and I in particular will forever have you in my heart. Good bye here on earth and Good morning in heaven. ____________________ Written by Fr. Bindel Nnabuife, Cm