Catholic Diocese of Bo mourns Rev. Fr. John Joe Sandi

The Catholic Diocese of Bo gathered at Fallah Village on Friday to receive the body of Father John Joe Sandi following its transport from Freetown. Altar servers and the Knights of St. John International Brass Band led a procession into Bo, accompanied by family members, sympathizers, and the lay faithful, to deliver the remains to St. Pius X Parish.

During the reception at the parish, Father Alphonso A. Carew of the Archdiocese of Freetown led prayers, and Father John Samking Yamba offered a reflection. Father Yamba noted that the bishop, the confraternity of priests, and the faithful did not expect or prepare for the sudden death of Father Sandi. He encouraged the community to serve with dedication because the future is uncertain. Speakers including the parish priest and the PPC Chairman also shared tributes regarding the priest's humility and service.

The remains were moved to the Bo Government Hospital Mortuary after the reception. A vigil service was held at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral at St. Francis Xavier Parish, presided over by Vicar General Very Rev. Moses Kawa and several other priests, including Very Rev. Joseph Tamba Kamanda, the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Freetown.