Visa extension granted for Nigerian priests

The Diocese of Tucson is thrilled to share good news regarding Reverend Iorlumun Emmanuel Tamen and Reverend Ukeyima Emmanuel Adams.  The petition for their Visa extension was submitted, and while it is being processed, both are allowed to remain in the U.S. for at least six more months. 

Father Adams and Father Tamen each have R-1Visas. Both are in Southern Arizona classified as religious workers. The two priests are members of the Via Christi Society. They were having to return to Nigeria due to backlogs surrounding R-1 Visas. 

The news of their departure traveled far and wide from Yuma where Father Tamen serves and Kearny where Father Adams serves all the way to Washington, D.C.  The Diocese of Tucson truly appreciate everyone’s prayers, care, and concern during this time.




We are profoundly grateful to Bishop Gerald Kicanas, the Chancellor, Anna Gallardo, and our immigration attorney, Tristy Longfellow, for their dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts during a period of great immigration uncertainty. We also extend sincere appreciation to USCIS, whose final decision brought clarity, relief, and stability after a long and prayerful journey.
Our deep thanks go to the people of the Diocese of Tucson for your unwavering prayers, prayers that truly opened the doors of heaven and carried our petitions before God. We are equally grateful to our parishioners at Infant Jesus of Prague Parish, Kearny, and St. Joseph Parish, Hayden, St John Neumann Yuma, Marine Base MCAS Yuma as well as all the faithful in our communities, for your constant prayers, encouragement, and support. We express our joy and gratitude to all who ensured that we received this extension. At one point, we were fully packed, flights booked, and goodbyes already said to our beloved parishioners. In that moment of uncertainty, Bill Gresser spoke words of faith, saying he believed in miracles, and he began “Praying for a Christmas Miracle.” Many joined in that prayer, and indeed, God heard the prayers of His people.
This experience has once again revealed to us the power and efficacy of prayer. For us, remaining here, continuing our ministries, and celebrating the Holy Eucharist with and for our people is a gift we do not take lightly. We are deeply grateful for the care, concern, and thoughtfulness shown toward our safety. This truly, is love made visible.

While we would not want to mention individual names, the love shown was overwhelming. So many people expressed concern, cried, prayed, and shared our story through the media. What began as our simple appreciation and gratitude to the people whom we have served over the years quickly became a powerful communal response of faith and solidarity. And here we are today.
Ours has been a lived experience of the practical love of Christ, made real in tangible and deeply human ways. We hold you all dearly in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers.
We are also thankful to Bill Gresser, Deacon Douglas Nicholls, Joyce Lobeck (Yuma Sun), Madeline Murray (KYMA), Belsis Romero, and so many others whose names we may not be able to mention at this time. Please know that your efforts, kindness, and support are deeply and truly appreciated.
As our motto reminds us each day:
“Oh Jesus, what are Your plans?”
May His plans continue to unfold in the very best way for us all.
Finally, we give thanks to God for every step taken to restrain violence and protect innocent lives in Nigeria. Such moments bring relief and renewed hope, especially to those of us who have lived through the pain and trauma caused by terrorism. As survivors, this moment touches us deeply.
We carry in our hearts the suffering of our people and all who have been affected by acts of violence. We pray that God will continue to grant wisdom, courage, and strength to all entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding lives, that they may always choose the path of peace, justice, and the preservation of human dignity. May the Lord heal the wounded, comfort the grieving, and bring lasting peace to all communities affected by violence.
Merry Christmas to you all (Feliz Navidad y más bendiciones).