On 3rd January 2026, as he had done faithfully for nearly twenty years, Msgr. Philip Hoteyin led us in ‘A Day With Mary’, the 1st Saturday Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, at the Lagos Archdiocesan Marian Shrine, Maryland. None of us imagined it would be the last time he would guide us in the devotion he loved so deeply. We were already looking forward to the next one with him on 7th February, but God called him home sooner than we expected on January 29, 2026.
That final ‘Day With Mary’ will remain unforgettable for many of us — Monsignor waving his white handkerchief joyfully as he led his beloved Marian songs: “Flag of Mary is flowing high and higher” and “Laudate Mariam”, while spicing them up with the greeting/slogan, ‘Ave, Maria!!’ His devotion to Our Lady was total and infectious.
Msgr. Hoteyin encouraged us to keep the monthly Marian devotion faithfully, always eager to teach and share his deep love of Mary.
As his unofficial “photographer,” I was often requested — gently but firmly — to send him pictures taken at the Shrine for his own use. He took genuine interest in the memories we created. He also graciously wrote the Foreword to my yet-to-be-published book “For the Love of Mary.” While I regret that the book did not come out before his passing, I remain profoundly grateful for his fatherly advice, guidance, and encouragement. He cherished his cultural roots, spoke often of what he called his “late start” in the Church, even though at 80 years old, he spent 50 of those years as a priest in the Lord’s vineyard. He held an unwavering belief that all would be well and encouraged us all to always ask for Mother Mary’ intercession in our quest for better life for us and our families.
Msgr. Hoteyin was a strict man — both with himself and with others — but his firmness was anchored in love, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to God’s work. He took great pride in the physical growth of the Shrine and in the deepening spirituality of those who worked with him. He never hesitated to commend them, and he was humble enough to seek clarification or guidance when needed. Many of our supposed “short meetings,” and even confessions, extended far beyond their expected time — but those rich conversations remain treasured and sealed between us.
He dedicated countless hours to confessions, counselling, Wednesday procession with novena prayers, and the three Archdiocesan Novenas in preparation for the Solemnities of the Annunciation, Assumption, and Immaculate Conception, even while serving as Judicial Vicar. His passing leaves a deep vacuum; his shoes will not be easy to fill.
Rest in peace, dear Msgr. Philip Hoteyin. Your flag of Mary now flies on eternally.
Epa Ogie Eboigbe, St. Agnes, Maryland
