After 21 years of selfless pastoral ministry in the community of Holloway, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Fr. Gideon Wagay had to retire due to health reasons. On 12th January, 2025 the whole parish community and loved ones gathered in his honour to pray and celebrate him. This offered him the chance to say ‘thank you’ to all parishioners and friends.
The send-off celebration which began with the Solemn Thanksgiving Mass presided over by himself offered all parishioners an opportunity to reflect on the countless ways Fr. Gideon has been a source of inspiration and support to the parish and the School. He simply led us to God.
Father arrived in our Parish to take up the role as Parish Priest in 2003. He has worked with zeal ever since he began working here. His guidance, direction, care, attention and encouragement to us have been invaluable especially in our challenging moments. He was like a father, uncle, brother and a friend: he indeed has been part of our lives. He shared our joys, and supported those who faced any life’s challenges. We are sincerely grateful to God for his priestly ministry and service in our parish. He has shown us what it truly means to serve with dedication and enthusiasm.
Fr. Gideon, together we have achieved a lot. We ask that God may bless you with His presence in your heart, His holiness in your soul, and His joy in your spirit. May He grant you particularly good health and strength.
We cannot thank you enough. May our presence yesterday, our presents, and prayers be signs of our love for you, and appreciation for your ministry which surely has had a positive impact on our Parish. From all of us here at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Holloway, Farewell.