Local priest awarded a PhD

A Mullingar based priest has been awarded a PhD in Theology from St Patrick’s Pontifical University Maynooth.

Fr Timothy Mejida was recently awarded a Doctorate in Theology for his studies on “The Nature of Jesus' Obedience: A Narrative-Critical Reading of Matthew's Gethsemane (26:36-46)” from St Patrick’s Pontifical University.

As well as serving the people in the diocese of Meath since 2014, Fr Mejida commenced his doctoral studies in the same year. At his recent graduation. Fr Mejida said: “My studies have been a fascinating and enriching experience. I thank the staff and my colleagues for the wonderful time we shared together in that journey. I am eternally grateful to my thesis supervisor, Dr Jessie Rogers.”

Originally from the village of Sheria in Nigeria, Fr Mejida has a long affinity to Ireland, particularly with the nuns from the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary who supported him with his secondary school education and inspired him to enter the seminary.

A key figure in this journey was Sr Ann McElroy, who was one of the first nuns to arrive in his parish in Nigeria, who with the help of generosity in Ireland, completed his second level education.

After going on to complete his seminarian studies, Fr Mejida was keen to visit Ireland. That opportunity arose in 2011, when he took on a hospital apostolate at St Francis Private Hospital, Ballindery, Mullingar. This was followed by some time in Rathmolyon Parish and Lobinstown as curate. During his time in Ireland, Fr Mejida was able to reunite with Sr Ann.

Although Sr Ann has returned to her eternal home, her sister, Sr Shelia McElroy was able to attend and see Fr Mejida be conferred.