Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Father Freddie Mbiere recently became a U.S. citizen in a ceremony held at the Abraham Lincoln Museum in Springfield. The event, which was attended by many, marked the end of a lengthy process for Father Freddie, who is the pastor of St. John Vianney Parish in Sherman and Resurrection Parish in Illiopolis.

During the ceremony, patriotic songs were sung and speakers highlighted the significance of the occasion before Father Freddie took his oath of allegiance to the United States. "It is an overwhelming experience for me to be an American finally after all these years of journey," he expressed.

Born in Nigeria in 1976, Father Freddie was ordained as a priest in 2006 in the Diocese of Nnewi. He moved to Illinois' Diocese of Springfield in 2016, initially serving as chaplain at St. John's Hospital before taking on roles at Christ the King Parish and his current assignments.

Reflecting on his new citizenship, Father Freddie stated, "For me to be here today (as a U.S. citizen), it is God’s blessing." He also shared his appreciation for America’s spirit and opportunities: "It is wonderful to say that we are ‘one nation under God’ because God is everything."

Father Freddie thanked those who supported him throughout his journey, including Bishop Thomas John Paprocki and Msgr. David Hoefler. "I want to remember my parents who made it possible for me to be in this world," he said.

The ceremony concluded with Father Freddie expressing gratitude towards his parishioners and colleagues: "May God bless you for all your services... know that Father Freddie is an American today!"