Late Rev Fr Paschal M S Mendy 1966-2026
On 2 April 1966 at the peaceful village of Darsilami. Mr. Domingo Kayankarr and Mrs. Lisa Mendy had a male child and named him Paschal Samai. He grew up to be quiet, humble and profoundly proud of his environment and community. He loved his Catholic faith and exhibited a strong desire to become a priest. He eventually received ‘A Call, Vocation’ and gained entrance to start ‘Spiritual Year’ at St. Kizito Minor Seminary in Kenama, Sierra Leone. Soon after, civil unrests necessitated an evacuation and continuation of his studies at St. Paul Major Seminary in Liberia where he studied ‘Philosophy’. Once again, brutal civil war led to a second evacuation back to Sierra Leone to study ‘Philosophy &Theology’. Finally, he gained admission to St. Peter’s Seminary Pedu Ghana for ‘Theology’. Political instability, uncertainty, displacement and strive for survival punctuated his formation. These difficult challenges (interruptions, fear and high travelling costs) did not deter his aspiration. Paschal Mendy was very much determined to succeed ‘Nihil/Nil-Desperadum’.
Paschal Mendy demonstrated deep love and sincerity throughout his formation and priesthood journey. His concern has always been to care for the church, his family and his community. In private conversations, Rev Fr Paschal openly shared his struggles, challenges, and concerns, especially as related to academic work. During the Rite of his Ordination to the Catholic Priesthood, Rev Fr Paschal prostrated on the floor, surrendered his personal ambitions, desires and worldly standards of success so that he might belong totally to Christ and the Church. Rev Fr Paschal Mendy showed enormous determination to serve the Lord at the altar. He was ordained into the priesthood on 25 November 1995 and served the Diocese of Banjul for 31 years.
He was a person with principles and meant his words as his name ‘Semai’ means tiger in Karoninka (his tribal identity). He had natural talents for technical work. He never fought for attention or sort recognition and hardly voiced his opinions publicly except when he was amongst his students at the seminary. He preferred the background to the spotlight and service over praise. Indeed, he was not loud in words and listened more than he spoke. He was a Priest that chose modesty over visibility. Rev Fr Paschal was simple, unobtrusive and celebrated the Holy Eucharist with posture and enormous reference. He was deeply reflective and immensely impactful. Fr. Paschal lived a Ministry of Quiet Presence and walked benevolently amongst his parishioners. He showed unwavering dedication to God’s people. Fr. Paschal freely surrendered his own will and authority to the Church.
Fr. Paschal believed in ‘Continuous Education & Training’ for self-development. He enhanced his skills by pursuing: Construction at Gambia Technical Training Institute (GTTI) (2002-2003). In addition, Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Theology at All Hallows College, Dublin, Ireland(2005-2006).
He left his footprints all over the Diocese of Banjul. He trod the paths of mission at Bansang(Sacred Heart of Jesus1995-1999),Bwiam(St Fatima), Njongon (St Michael), Kanifing(St Therese’s Parish), Lamin (Rector St. Peter’s Seminary 2018-2026) and Banjul(The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption 1995-2004) as Administrator. Again, in 2022 he served the Cathedral as Assistant Administrator. During this period, he provided guidance with dedication, humility and pastoral wisdom. Rev Fr Paschal was a Chaplain Seafarers’, Central Prisons, Banjul Ports and the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital. He conducted his ministry gently but powerfully with humility that defined his priesthood. He served God with fidelity and the people with sincerity.
Prolonged illness and declining health eventually led to his death on Saturday 2May 2026 at the Medi Care Clinic in Brusubi. He faithfully prepared and accepted his destiny. The Diocese of Banjul and the entire Christian fraternity grieved and mourned him. His Funeral Mass & Burial Rites was held on Friday15 May 2026 at St Francis Parish, Kunkujang. The venue was a significant reminder of Fr John (Jackie) Sharpe CSSp.
His Lordship, Bishop Gabriel Mendy CSSp and the clergy received the casket containing the mortal remains. It was placed inside the church to allow for ‘Paying Last Respect’ and bidding farewell to a loving and humble priest.
Interment was at the ‘Priests/Religious Christian Cemetery’ Kunkujang, Mariama. The body was finally laid to rest; the final dismissal prayers closed the solemn burial of Rev Fr Paschal. It was a sad day at Kunkujang Mariama in the month of May; a month dedicated to our beloved Mother Mary.
May God grant him eternal peace and rest and reward him for his service and ministry in The Gambia.
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