The stage is set for the public presentation of the book: Under the Nigerian Skies: A Memoir of Daniel A. Monaghan, SMA, on Sunday, September 6, 2025, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Gowon Estate, Egbeda, Lagos.
108scoop.com reports that the book presentation is part of the activity’s lineup for the 50th priestly anniversary – Golden Jubilee of Rev. Fr. Dan Monaghan, the Parish Priest of the Church.
The book is the extraordinary tale of a man of unwavering faith who dedicated his life to serving the people of Africa. Arriving on the continent as a young man, faced hardships from the scorching heat and sometimes the threat of disease of the time. Yet, he persevered, witnessing for Christ as a missionary and establishing schools, clinics, and churches, bringing hope and healing to remote villages.
Through vivid reflections, the book chronicles Fr. Dan Monaghan’s remarkable journey, showcasing the profound impact of his selfless service on the lives of the people of his places of mission.
Monaghan’s story is not merely a historical account; it is a testament to the enduring power of human compassion and the transformative potential of faith. From navigating cultural differences and overcoming language barriers, he faced challenges that tested his resolve and deepened his understanding of the human condition.
The book offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of missionary work, examining the delicate balance between cultural sensitivity and the desire to share one’s beliefs.
His unwavering commitment to the well-being of the people serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the importance of intercultural understanding, social justice, and the power of individual action to make a difference.
The priest arrived in Africa for the first time in September 1975 and earned admiration in these years of his missionary work for various reasons, earning him the title of a devoted servant of God and pillar of strength.
He is remarkably respected for his dedication to the mission and compassion for people, as noted in the interviews contained in the book authored by Ernest M.C. Egbedike, SMA.
Egbedike is a Catholic priest, educator, and missionary with over a decade of experience. He holds degrees in Philosophy, Theology, Law, and postgraduate qualifications in Christian Leadership and Educational Management, with a doctorate in Intercultural Leadership and Administration in progress.
He has served with the Society of African Missions (SMA) as a youth mission animator and seminary formator and had mission experience in the Ivory Coast/Burkina Faso, Benin/Niger Republic, Nigeria, and the USA.
Currently, he is the Administrator of SS Joachim and Anne Schools, Assistant Parish Priest at St. Joseph Catholic Church, and Project Office Director for the SMA Nigeria Province. He is a human development enthusiast.
The 149-page book is edited by Edwin Nwachukwu, the Editor-In-Chief of 108scoop.com, a dynamic online publication. He is also a former Assistant Editor-In-Chief at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). A distinguished Nigerian journalist, Edwin’s career spans multiple domains, encompassing both local and international reporting. Notably, he served as the Agency’s Bureau Chief at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
His professional development includes prestigious scholarships such as the Southwest Airlines Travel Scholarship and the Donald T. Sheechan International Fellowship Scholarship, both awarded by Wharton University of Pennsylvania through the Seminars for Business Journalists in San Francisco, CA, and Philadelphia, PA, respectively.
He has authored numerous articles and features that explore Nigerian politics, societal development, and international diplomacy. Additionally, Edwin is the editor of the book “Views from America: A Sojourner’s Memoirs – A Repertoire of Action for Nigeria’s Development” by Dr. Acho Orabuchi. He is also a recipient of the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2013, from then-U.S. President Barack Obama.
Edwin is also a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Joseph Onuorah, CMG, and also co-editor of the book, said Fr. Dan is not just a priest but a true patron of sacred music and a friend to every choir.
According to Onuorah, his love for music and his unwavering support for choristers are deeply rooted in his journey, a journey that once saw him as a member of the choir himself.
This firsthand experience with choral singing has shaped his deep appreciation for the ministry of music within the Church.
”At every Mass he celebrates, Fr. Dan never fails to acknowledge the contribution of the choir. With a warm smile and genuine gratitude, he showers words of appreciation and encouragement
on the singers, organist, and all who make liturgical music come alive.
”Whether it’s a regular Sunday Mass or a special celebration, his consistent expression of love and recognition at the end of each liturgy is both humbling and uplifting. His words are never hurried nor perfunctory; they are spoken with the heart of one who understands that music is prayer made audible.
”Fr. Dan goes beyond mere words. His presence at choir concerts, rehearsals, and musical events is a testimony to his support. He doesn’t show up; he participates, listens attentively, and celebrates the choir with joy and pride.
”He understands the sacrifices, the hours of practice, and the spiritual discipline that go into preparing sacred music. For him, choir ministry is not an auxiliary function; it is an integral part of worship, deserving of pastoral care and visible encouragement,” Onuorah said.
Onuorah noted that what makes Fr. Dan’s support so unique is his connection to
music, having once been a chorister himself; he sings not just with his voice, but with his soul.
”He often shares fond memories of his time in the choir, inspiring younger members and reminding all that liturgical music is a noble calling, one that feeds both the Church and the soul of the minister.
”Through his words, presence, and actions, Fr. Dan exemplifies what it means to be a priest who walks with the choir, not behind them, not ahead of them, but beside them.
”His ministry to the Church is enriched by his love for music and the choirs. He always appreciated the choir at the end of each Mass.”
