Father Hilary Ike, a priest of the Columbus diocese serving in the U.S. Army, was promoted to the rank of major. The promotion raises him above captain, which was his previous ranking.
A ceremony and reception honoring Father Ike will be held Friday, Sept. 25 at the U.S. Army base where he serves.
The Nigeria native, who came to the diocese in 2012, is currently serving as an Army chaplain at the U.S. southern border and was deployed in early July. He was commissioned into the U.S. Army in November 2019.
“I am deeply grateful to God for the privilege of being promoted to the rank of major in the United States Army. I receive this milestone with humility, gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility,” he said.
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“This promotion is not merely a recognition of rank; it is a call to greater service, leadership and commitment to the soldiers and communities entrusted to my care.
“I am especially grateful to my family, Bishop (Earl Fernandes), brother priests, fellow soldiers, mentors, friends and everyone who has supported and encouraged me along the journey.”
Father Ike mirrors U.S. Army soldiers in nearly every aspect with the exception of bearing arms.
He celebrates the sacraments, primarily the Eucharist and reconciliation, for soldiers. He also offers pastoral care, providing counsel to men and women in the service.
Father Ike is a brigade chaplain, meaning he renders support at the brigade level.
The U.S. Army is divided in units based on size. Brigades average between 2,000 and 5,000 soldiers.
A brigade is split into three to five smaller-sized battalions. Majors usually serve as executive or operations officers for a battalion-sized unit of 300 to 1,200 soldiers.
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As a major, Father Ike will serve as the primary staff officer for brigade and task force command regarding personnel, logistical and operational missions.
“As I take on this new responsibility, I remain committed to serving with faith, integrity, compassion, courage and excellence. I pray for the wisdom to lead well, the humility to keep learning and the strength to serve others faithfully,” he said.
“To God be the glory for the journey so far, and may He continue to guide me in the service that lies ahead.”