LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – A longtime spiritual leader at Mercy Health–St. Rita’s received a heartfelt farewell Friday, marking the end of more than two decades of service.
Father Charles Obinwa, who has been the priest at St. Rita’s for 22 years, spent his final day greeting friends, colleagues, and parishioners during a farewell celebration in the hospital lobby.
Originally from Nigeria, Father Charles has served not only at St. Rita’s but also with parishes in Van Wert, St. Mary's, Delphos, and Fort Jennings. When reflecting on his time at St. Rita’s, he attributed his work and impact entirely to his faith.
"Honestly, I give god all the glory because the ministry doesn't belong to me. It is the ministry of Jesus Christ. So I strongly believe, in my own little way, that god has helped me to touch many lives here, like thousands and thousands and thousands, almost 23 years here, I've seen people in their vulnerability, people in their lowest stage of life. I've watched so many people die. From all I've done here and all my years here, that spiritual component is so essential in life," commented Father Charles Obinwa.
Next, Father Charles will begin a new chapter as a priest at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroeville, Ohio.
