In the 19th century, early Christian missions in Igboland began with the arrival of Holy Ghost Fathers led by French priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Lua. They visited Aguleri, Nsugbe, and eventually established the mission of Notre Dame de Chartres. The first parish priest, Rev. Father Jean Marie Cadio, arrived in Nsugbe in 1894 and was succeeded by Rev. Fr. Aime Ganot. This period was considered the golden age for the Catholic Church in Nsugbe, as it marked a period of triumph for the Catholic Church. The town experienced a renewed zeal and a rush to Catholicism, with many people sending their children to the school. The event of Obi Ifeatu’s baptism in August 1901 was a significant event, and many people became curious about the new faith. Other notable events during this period included the construction of a kindergarten, primary school, and the establishment of a Christian village. This victory for the Catholic Church continued until 1904 when the turning of the tides in Nsugbe was marked by the emergence of the Nsugbe Catholic Church.
In 1904, a shortage of priests hit the Catholic church in Nsugbe, leading to a weakening of faith and neglect of religious obligations among Christians. The absence of priests created a vacuum, and the fire disaster affected mission buildings. Father Dahaze had to win back the people’s faith and rebuild mission buildings, but his efforts were hindered by the suspension of Obi, the recognized warrant chief of Nsugbe. Father Shanahan was appointed as the apostolic prefect of the lower Niger, and Father Harry arrived in Nsugbe. Father Feral took up residence in Nsugbe in 1906. However, the efforts of the Father to win back the people’s faith became an uphill task. On December 20, 1906, Very Rev Shanahan decided to close the parish, and Father Feral left Nsugbe for Onitsha. Many converts relapsed into traditionalism and cultural beliefs, but some remained steadfast and fervent in their faith.
In 1921, Nsugbe people requested the return of the fathers of the church, which was closed by Most Rev Bishop Shanahan. Rev Father Feral returned from France and was posted to Aguleri to erect a new church, St John the Baptist Church. The new mission passed through many obstacles before attaining its principal status. In 1981, Rev Father Michael Ezeabasili was posthumously appointed to start a new parish, 75 years after the closure of the first mission. He was later succeeded by Father Peter Okafor.