A Catholic priest in Nigeria shocked radio listeners by announcing his decision to leave the Catholic Church during a live broadcast. Patrick Edet, who served under the Catholic Diocese of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State, was well known for his popular radio program Grace and Inspiration. Instead of his usual uplifting message, he used the platform to declare his resignation from the priesthood.
Edet stated that he had officially stepped away from his duties and obligations as a Catholic priest, emphasizing that his resignation was both a spiritual and personal decision. He expressed that he no longer considered himself bound by the laws and authority of the Catholic Church, having submitted his resignation letter to his superiors. According to him, his only allegiance now was to God.
Having served as a Catholic priest for more than 11 years, Edet’s decision was unusual in a country like Nigeria, where it is rare for a priest to leave the Church. Akwa Ibom, a predominantly Christian state, has a significant Catholic population. He revealed that his choice was not made lightly, as he had spent seven months in prayer and fasting before reaching his conclusion.
The Catholic Church in Akwa Ibom did not immediately issue a response to his resignation. Apart from his role as a radio preacher, Edet also leads Grace Family Global Outreach, an independent Christian fellowship that operates outside the Catholic Church’s control. The fellowship, known for its Pentecostal-style practices such as prophecy and speaking in tongues, had often put him at odds with Catholic doctrine and leadership.
During his 40-minute radio broadcast, Edet shared personal reflections on his faith journey, describing the challenges he faced within the Catholic Church. He spoke about years of opposition, criticism, and what he described as a struggle to fully express his calling. He recounted how restrictions within the Church made him feel confined, unable to explore his understanding of God beyond its institutional boundaries.
He acknowledged that his decision would come with serious consequences, including rejection, but insisted that he was prepared to face them. He stressed that his ultimate accountability was to God, not Church authorities, and that his main goal was to be right with God and attain eternal salvation.
Edet also addressed those who might condemn his decision, stating that while they were entitled to their opinions, they did not fully understand his journey, calling, or relationship with God. He affirmed that he would continue his ministry and remain committed to spreading his faith, while making it clear that he would never encourage others to leave the Catholic Church.
1 comment
You made it good so SALVATION is personal