CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF AGULERI
Aguleri Diocesan Parishes
AGULERI
St. Joseph's Cathedral.
The arrival of the missionaries in Onitsha gave rise to the beginning of Christianity in Aguleri. In 1887, barely two years after their arrival, Chief Onyekomeli Idigo started paying regular visit to the Catholic mission as Onitsha, imploring them to come to Aguleri. Eventually, in 1888, Fr. Lutz with the company of escorts travelled to Aguleri through Nsugbe and Nneyi. They were welcomed by Chief Idigo who has been expecting them. The Catholic mission established then helped in propagating the gospel and most especially provided a sanctuary for the mother of twins, those accused of witchcraft and also gave medical aid to the sick.
On June 1st, 1890, Fr. Lutz and Fr Bubendorf selected a site for the construction of a mission house in Aguleri through the aid of Chief Idigo. later on in 1895, a church was built and extended in 1897, an evidence of rapid growth. Then in 1914, the permanent building was constructed. With the help of local artisans, a rectory was also constructed.
In 2010, the parish completed the building of the present secretariat which was built with the idea of a Bishop’s house without the idea that a Bishop will be coming sson. Later on in 2015, an Auxiliary Bishop was appointed for Onitsha Archdiocese and was to reside at Aguleri. This brought about the construction of a more suitable building to house the Bishop in December 2014 and completed in December 2015.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, sacred heart of jesus, altar knights association, mary league, precious blood, charismatic renewal, st. jude, tansi solidarity.
Administrator: rev. fr. celestine chigboh.
Parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. George Udenabo
In Residence: Rev. Fr. Henry Ekeh
In Residence: Rev. Fr. Vincent Abanogu
in residence: Rev. Fr. Michael Okagbue
AGULERI
st. mary's parish, ugwunadagbe.
St. Mary’s Parish, Ugwunadegbe was elevated to the status of a parish by his Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke in 2009.
The journey to the status of a parish began on 29th June 1997 when some delegates met with the parish priest of St. Joseph’s parish(now Cathedral) to request for a priest who will be celebrating regular masses at the St. Mary’s outstation Ugwunadegbe as most of her members were already old and weak to be trekking to St. Francis Ivite Aguleri. This request was granted immediately with the assurance that the faithful would be dedicated to attending masses.
In 2009, the outstation was raised to the status of a parish with Rev. Fr. Oliver Idemili as the pioneer parish priest.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Martin Atumanya
AGULERI
st. francis's parish, Ivite.
St. Francis was created in the year 2005. The population of the parish as at last census was about 3594 (three thousand five hundred and ninety- four). The date and the year of first Holy Mass celebrated in St. Francis was on 9th January, Sunday 2005 by Rev. Fr. Augustine Chigbo, the pioneer parish priest.
The two outstations attached to St. Francis are St. Patrick Igboezunu and St. Peter’s Outstation.
Some of the pious societies in the parishes are: Legion of Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help, Charismatic Renewal Movement, St. Anthony of Padua and Tansi Solidarity Movement.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Peter Obimma
aGULERI
st. paul's parish, enugu-otu.
St Paul’s Parish Aguleri Otu comprises of Enugu otu and Eziagulu-otu, the riverine part of Aguleri. St Paul’s parish was carved out of St Joseph parish Aguleri (now a Cathedral).
It was raised to the status of a parish in the year 1990 by Most Rev Stephen N Ezeanya the then Arch Bishop of Onitsha, with Rev fr. Philip Nwafor as the first parish priest. Later, on the 20th Jan 2005, an Outstation was created at Oninze called BI Iwene Tansi outstation. The parish under the administration of Fr Godwin Oyekwe began a nursery school later to Primary called Nazereth Nursery & Primary School. Also on 29th September 2004 the parish under the Leadership aforementioned Pastor began yet another School now a Secondary School Called Blessed Iwene Tansi Secondary School Eziagulu-out.
On The 20th of December 2015, the parish celebrated her 25th anniversary as a parish led by Rev Fr. Paschal Uzziḥ the then Parish priest during which the newly built calvary Garden was blessed.
However,over the time, St Paul’s Parish has withnessed up to to Seven pastoral Visits since her inception.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. christopher Nwogu hFFBY
AGULERI
st. mary's parish, eziagulu-otu.
St. Mary’s Parish Eziagulu-otu was formerly Independent Station under St paul’s Parish Enugu otu between 2007 and 2011. It was canonically elevated to the Status of a Parish Wednesday 23rd December 2011 during the pastoral visit of His Grace Mt Rev. Val Okeke.
St Mary Later had her own outstations namely St Jude Okpaiyagba and St Dominic’s Oviaokusu. Since the inception as independent Station in 2009, the parish has been administered by these priests, Rev Fr Augustine Muoghalu, Rev.Fr. Ben Udogwu.
The Church of St Mary’s manages these Schools in the Community St Mary’s Nursery and Primary School, National primary school and blessed Iwene Tansi econdary school.
All things being equal, the structural development in the Parish Includes, the erection of a moderate Frs House, Grotto of the Blessed virgin Mary, and the Calvary Garden. Also the Parish has a good rice and Cassava Mill. So far, over time the Parish has the witnessed two pastoral Visits, first on the 23rd of December 2011 by His Grace Most Rev. Val Okeke and Secondly 23rd Dec. 2015 by His Lordship Most Rev Denis Isizoh the then auxiliary bishop of Onitsha(now the Bishop of Aguleri)
St. Mary’s Parish Eziagulu-otu was formerly Independent Station under St paul’s Parish Enugu otu between 2007 and 2011. It was canonically elevated to the Status of a Parish Wednesday 23rd December 2011 during the pastoral visit of His Grace Mt Rev. Val Okeke.
St Mary Later had her own outstations namely St Jude Okpaiyagba and St Dominic’s Oviaokusu. Since the inception as independent Station in 2009, the parish has been administered by these priests, Rev Fr Augustine Muoghalu, Rev.Fr. Ben Udogwu.
The Church of St Mary’s manages these Schools in the Community St Mary’s Nursery and Primary School, National primary school and blessed Iwene Tansi econdary school.
All things being equal, the structural development in the Parish Includes, the erection of a moderate Frs House, Grotto of the Blessed virgin Mary, and the Calvary Garden. Also the Parish has a good rice and Cassava Mill. So far, over time the Parish has the witnessed two pastoral Visits, first on the 23rd of December 2011 by His Grace Most Rev. Val Okeke and Secondly 23rd Dec. 2015 by His Lordship Most Rev Denis Isizoh the then auxiliary bishop of Onitsha(now the Bishop of Aguleri)
parish priest: Rev. Fr. emmanuel Ezemannaya HFFBY
ANAM
our lady of lourdes nmiata
Our Lady of Lourdes, Mmiata Anam was created in 1972 with its first holy mass celebrated on 15th February, 1972
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, purgartorian society
parish priest: rev. Kenneth Adimike HFFBY
Parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. vitalis Ifeka hFFBY
aNAM
st. theresa's ind. Station Aboegbu
St. Theresa’s independent station, Aboegbu Anam was created in October 2013 with its first holy mass being celebrated on 20th October, 2013.
Outstations: St. Dominic’s station Ochii, St. John’s station Nkwu.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity.
parish priest: rev. Fr. Kenneth Adimike HFFBY
parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. Vitalis Ifeka hFFBY
ANAM
holy cross parish, oroma-etiti
Holy Cross parish was carved out of Our Lady of Lourdes parish Mmiata-Anam on 30th December, 1981 with Rev. Fr. Basil Gbuzue as her first parish priest. The parish was made up of these towns: Oroma-etiti, Umudora, Umuikwu, Mbaito, Onono, Umuenwelum and Obodo-otu.
The parish had an outstation in each of these six towns but were however cut down to three after the creation of a parish in Umudora, Umuikwu, Mbaito and Onono. Futhermore, Holy Trinity Umuenwelum and Obodo-Ukwu were carved out leaving the main center with only two outstation in one town.
Outstations: St. Peter’s outstation, Agwe and Holy Family outstation, Ugbuada.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, precious blood.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Fabian Ojiobianu HFFBY
Parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. Rufus Echefu
ANAM
st. mary's parish, umudora
The Catholic Mission in Anam began with the arrival of the whie Catholic priest from Aguleri. He pleaded to establish a Catholic school, which would also be a church in the community. This request was granted quickly as Ogbueti Mmolokwu’s ‘Obi’ was donated for use.
In January 1937, at the visit of Fr. Joseph Sweeney, the parish priest of St. Joseph parish, Aguleri, the community donated a parcel of land.
In 1996, with the aid of Rev. Fr. Michael Ozodigwe who was the then parish priest of Holy Cross Oroma-Etiti, St. Mary’s station was elevated to the status of a parish
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Christopher Nnadi
ANAM
holy trinity parish, umuenwelum
The light of the gospel was brought to the doorstep of the people of Umuenwelum Anam in the year 1936 through the instrumentality of Rev. Fr. Joseph Delaney Cssp. who was the pastor at St. Joseph’s Parish Aguleri. together with some early converts, he erected a thatched mud house that served as the church building and school.
In November, 2008 under the administration of Rev. Fr. Nichodemus Aloefuna, the dream of being a parish was achieved. Since the elevation to the status of a parish, the population of the faithfuls have increased to over two thousand.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, precious blood.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Mark Madueke HFFBY
Parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. Cornelius Imoh HFFBY
aNAM
Ss Peter & Paul parish, umuenwelum
On Friday, 25th August, 2009, SS Peter and Paul station Obodo-Otu was carved out of Holy Trinity parish, Umuenwelum Anam.
The new independent station was placed under the cate of Late Fr. Joseph Amadi who was the priest in charge of Holy Trinity parish, Umuenwelum. At the demise of Fr. Amadi on 15TH January, 2011, Rev. Fr. Anselm Chidume was appointed the parish priest of Holy Trinity parish and administrators of Ss Peter and Paul station
On 12th March 2016, Ss Peter and Paul station was raised to the status of a parish by his Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke.
parish priest: rev. Fr. Mark Madueke HFFBY
vicar Parish: Rev. Fr. Cornelius Imoh HFFBY
aNAM
st. theresa's parish, umueze
The first missionary arrived Umueze Anam in 1906 from Aguleri. Rev. Fr. Joseph Lutz and Rev. Fr. Joseph Delaney were impressed by the people’s disposition towards them.
In 1936, a school which served as a school and Sunday Mass center was opened. The population grew larger leading to the building of a storey building for school and church activities at Oda by the Ojongo and Ngamawo age grade. In 1982, through the assistance of late Igwe J. C Emeka, the building of the present church building was initiated at its current site. In 1991, a successful launching was organized to aid the completion of the already abandoned project.
On March 6th, under the pastoral guidance of his Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, St. Theresa’s parish was formally inaugurated with the appointment of Rev. Fr. Abden Chike Onwuegbusi as the pioneer parish priest.
On January 14th, 2008, the Carmelite order represented by Rev. Fr. Andrew Umegbu OCD, with the letter from the Archbishop, was asked to take over the affairs of the parish. Fr. Andrew worked very hard especially in roofing the church. In 2011, Rev. Fr. Franklin Udenze took over the parish work and stepped up with the church project through election of an altar tabernacle and fencing of the Rectory.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Walter-Mary Ayogu OCD
parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. Franklin Nsude OCD
in Residence: Rev. Fr. Peter Nawchukwu
ANAM
st. augustine's parish, umuoba
St. Augustine’s parish Umuoba Anam was created in 1967 by his grace, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Heerey, the then Archbishop of Onitsha. He appointed Rev. Fr. Joseph Shanahan as the pioneer parish priest of St. Augustine’s parish which then comprised of Umuoba Anam, Nkwelle Ezunaka, Umueze Anam, Ezi Anam, Oroma Etiti Anam, Mmiata Anam, Umuenwelum Anam Nzam, Inoma, Odeh, Igbokenyi, Odekpe, Igbedor, Ala and Onugwe.
The foundation stone of the Catholic church was laid by his Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Francis Arinze on 23rd April, 1962.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Clement Aghadinuno
ANAKU
st. joseph's parish
The birth of the the catholic church could be tracked back to 1919 with the coming of late Review. Fr. C.T. Mac-Nnamar, accompanied by his renowned teacher/catechist late Mr. Martin Kwazu of Aguleri.
Fr. C. T Mac-Nnamar was succeeded by late Rev. Fr. J. A Farrell and Rev. Fr. S. Delong in 1921. In 1922 Fr. J.A Farrell opened a school of mud wall which he named St. Joseph school, Anaku, now Community primary school Anaku.
In 1936, late Rev. Fr. Joseph Delany was sent from Aguleri parish and late Mr. Joseph Ifeanya was to be the first indigenous catechist/Headmaster of the school. There was also missionaries sent in towards the end of 1936 to facilitate the evangelization in the person of late Monsignor William Obelagu who worked along side a German priest Rev. Fr. Urbane (1937-1939). Other priest from Aguleri Parish in the persons of Rev. Fr. Mynor Edward Ahaji(1946-1949), Blessed M.C Iwene Tansi and his vicar Rev. For. Clement Ulogu, and Rev. Fr. Lihane took over.
In March 24” 1954 wind of change and evangelization blew Akiyi from St. Joseph’s Aguleri of the Archdiocese of Onitsha to Aku in the then Enugu diocese.
In 1960 Holy Cross Akiyi Umulokpa was carved from Aku parish which included Ayamelum catholic stations. This was under the shepherdship of Mgsr. Rapheal Eze(1960-1962). Mgsr. Rapheal built the first two classroom block of which one serve as the church.
Rev. Fr. Eze was succeeded by Rev. Fr. Flanny (1963-1966). Akiyi was captured by the Nigeria soldier in 1966 during the civil war and the parish was not functioning at that time. In 1967-1970 the church sent Rev. Fr. Moses Orakwudo Cssp and Rev. Fr. Capt. Cyprian Charles Ikeme(1970-1971).
At that time there were agitation and delegates were sent by Ayamelum people to Bishop G. M. P Okoye of Enugu and Ifite Ogwari was granted a parish with Fr. Benjamin Mbata as the first resident priest.
Rev. Fr. Charles F. Ukagha took over from Fr. B. Mbata in 1983-1986 and finished the skeleton of the present church building at Anaku. Rev. Fr. Evaristus Nwamadi came in 1986 and during his time, the first indigenous priest in Anaku Rev. Fr. Paul C Nnanna was ordained at Anaku by His Lordship Rev. Dr. MU. Eneja the then Bishop of Enugu Diocese, he helped the creation of Omor parish and Rev. Fr. Ambrose O Azigah (1990-1994) became the first parish priest of Omor parish in 1990. Anaku was included in the new carved Omor parish. Rev. Fr. Martin E Ozioko 1994-1995 came in as the second parish priest of Omor parish comprising Omor, Anaku, Umumba and Umerum communities. Rev. Fr. Wilfred Odoh was sent in to take over from Fr. Emeka Ozioko in 1995 and stayed till 1997 and handed over to Rev. Fr. Joseph Ugwuanyi who left in 1998 and happened to be the last priest from Nsukka Diocese.
In September, 1998 pope Johnpaul II granted that Ayamelum can be moved to Onitsha Archdiocese according to their demands. Handover was done on 25 November 1998. In December 1998, the Archdiocese sent in Rev. Fr. Paul Obiaga to take over from Rev. Fr. Joseph Ugwuanyi and he became the first parish priest from Onitsha Archdiocese to be the first parish priest of Omor after our sojourn for about forty four (44) years in Enugu/Nsukka Dioceses. In 2001, a vicar in the person of Rev. Fr. Patrick Okwumuo was posted to Omor parish to assist Rev. Fr. Obiaga.
Rev. Fr. John Amechi Omutah replaced Rev. Fr. Okwumuo as the vicar At this time agitation to become a parish mounted by Anaku catholic station started receiving attention. Fr. Paul Obiaga helped in actualization of the dream and in 2004 Anaku parish was created and it was the first one-town parish in Ayamelum. Rev. Fr. Maurice Okechukwu Abasilim became the first parish priest of Anaku. Rev. Fr. Maurice Abasilim handed the baton over to Rev. Fr. Bedemoore Nnadozie Oblekezie in 5 September 2009. Rev. Fr. Bedemoore N. Obiekezie made numerous achievements, and in 2014 he handed over to Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Okechukwu Mba who stayed only eleven months and handed over to Rev. Fr. Raphael Odike.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Bartholomew Nworah HFFBY
AWKUZU
st. raphael's parish
St. Raphael’s parish Awkuzu was created on the 1st Jan. 1965 by His Grace, Most Rev. Charles Heerey, the Archbishop of Onitsha. The first Holy Mass was celebrated on the first of January, 1965 by the first Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. J. Duncan.
The outstations attached to the parish after the creation of 4 more parishes from the mother Parish are: St. Thomas Awkuzu, Holy Rosary Akwuzu and St. Andrew Obinetiti.
The Pious Societies in the parish are: Legion of Mary, St. Jude, St. Anthony, Tansi Society, Slave of Love, Sacred Heart Society, Charismatic Renewal Movement and Bible Society.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. nichodemus Aloefuna
In Residence: Rev. Fr. Sylvanus Nnoruka
AWKUZU
st. patrick's parish
In 1996,Late Mgsr. Joe Nwibegbunam, the parish priest of St. Raphael’s Catholic church, Awkuzu conducted census in Aand observed that Awkuzu was fit for at least three more parishes. It was misunderstood as a move to split Awkuzu into autonomous communities but was later discussed extensively during the parish council meeting held on 16th December, 1996.
The first parish created was St. Peter’s Umudioka Awkuzu followed by St. Michael’s Awkuzu and then St. Patrick’s parish, Awkuzu by his Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Albert Obiefuna.
On 15th January, 2005 St. Patrick’s station was elevated to the status of a parish with the arrival of the pioneer parish priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Akujiobi. As the pioneer, he did the initial planning, surveying and landscaping of the entire parish compound. He complete the furnishing of the Frs. House and built a temporary church which was at the same time utilized as school building. He then laid the foundation stone for an ultramodern church building.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Jude Ugonnaya HFFBY
Parish Vicar: Rev. Fr. Oscar Okoli HFFBY
AWKUZU
st. catherine's parish
St. Catherine’s Parish Awkuzu was dedicated on the 9th July 2005 by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke. It was that same day that St. Catherine station was elevated to a parish of it’s own with an immediately parish administrator, Rev. Fr. David Ozoemena .
For physical and Spiritual growth of the parish many confratenities and religious societies were introduced and established such as Legion of Mary, St. Catherine of Sienna society. Chrismastic renewal, Sacred Heart Society, Blessed Iwene Tansi and others.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. peter Okolo
AWKUZU
st. michael's parish
In 1921, the first missionary station was set up at ifite Awkuzu on a piece of land provided by Chief Patrick Igwebuike. The land was cleared and a teacher’s quarters and a church was erected. In the year 2008, St. Michael’s outstation was made a parish with very Rev. Fr. Josephat Nzekwesi as her first Parish priest.
In 1935, the Catholic stations in Awkuzu were amalgamated by Rev. Fr. Lydane and a central station located at Eke-Ata (post office). The new station was called St. Raphael’s mission.
In 1966, Mgsr. Nwibegbuna Joe arrived Awkuzu from Nmewi and saw the need to create three more parishes in Awkuzu. On 12th January, 2008, St. Michael’s outstation was raised to the status of a parish with Rev. Fr. Josephat Nzekwesi as it’s first parish priest.
The following Pious societies were introduced in the parish, namely: Sacred Heart League, Legion of Mary, Blue Army, Charismatic Renewal, Block Rosary Crusade, Tansi Solidarity Movement, Purgartorian Society, St. Jude Society, Precious Blood.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Jude Ugonnaya
AWKUZU
st. peter's parish, umudioka
St. Peter’s parish, Awkuzu began as an outstation of St. Raphael’s Awkuzu. Fuel to long distance and other considerations, the outstation was promoted to the status of a parish in January 2009 by Most. Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, the Archbishop of Onitsha.
The first solemn high mass was Cele rated by the newly appointed and pioneer parish priest, Rev. Fr. Bartholomew Nnakwe. The holy mass was celebrated at the present location of the Church’s primary school. This was the church site before another land was donated.
The population of the faithful during the last census has an estimate of five hundred faithful.
Parish Pious societies: charismatic renewal, legion of mary, st. Anthony’s society, perpetual help, purgatorian society.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
EGE-OJA
holy trinity parish
Holy Trinity parish, Ege oja is one of the riverine parishes with its native language as igala. It comprised of Holy Trinity parish, Ege oja and two other outstation (now St. Vincent de Paul Igbedor and St. Brendan Allay/Onugwa outstation. Holy Trinity parish was carved out from St. Mary’s parish Nzam in January 1998 by his Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Albert Obiefuna.
Parish Pious Societies : Block Rosary crusade, legion of mary, charismatic renewal.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
EGE-OJA
st. vincent de paul's parish
St. Vincent the Paul parish Egeoja is an island parish. The parish is made up of one outstation, St. Brendan catholic church, Allah/Omagwa. They speak Igala as their linguafranca. This is because of their closeness to Kogi state that speaks Igala.
Before the coming of Christianity, the people of that area were predominantly African traditionalists(as was the case in most Igbo land). In 1936, Rev. Fr. Joseph Delancy who lived in Aguleri came to Nzam and later to Odeh, Igbokenyi, Igbedor, Odekpe and finally to Allah/Omagwa. Not withstanding the unfriendly atmosphere, Rev. Frs.Delancy, Seeny, Kettle, Vincent and Brendan went about reacting school buildings which served as school and churches especially on Sundays. The early covers of this areas suffered mickey and rejection from families and friends.
Rev. Fr. William Obeleagu who was the first visiting black priest, fought greatly against nudity and immorality.
After the civil war a parish was created in Nzam because of the inflow of Igbo speaking people who were mainly Christians and who greatly influenced the people of that area. Fr. Hillary Anisiobi was made the first parish priest and together with other priests visited Odekpe and Allah/Omagwa.
The rapid growth of Catholicism among the people let to the formation of Olumbanasaa indigenous Catholic Association with late Chief Anthony Adigwe from Odeh as Chairman and later chief Francis Agbata from Igbedor as the secretary The principal aim and objective of this association was the creation of Olumbanasaa Parish. During the tenure of Rev. Fr. Paul Emeka Ekwealor as the Parish Priest of Nzam parish with Simon Odogwu Ocha from Odekpe village and Gabriel Aborah as president and secretary of Olumbanasaa indigenous Catholic Association respectively, the Constitution of the association was made available to Rev Fr. Paul Ekwealor. After going through the constitution, Fr Ekwealor advocated that St.Mary’s Nzam was too large for only one person to her effectively coupled with the terrain of the area.
In January 1998, Holy Trinity Parish Ege-oja( Olumbanasaa) was created with Rev. Fr. Cryil Ezeh(Akpunku) as the pioneer parish priest by His grace Rev. Dr. Albert Obiefuna. He( fr. Cyril) with his explanation social type of life attracted many to Christianity and made many converts. He also introduced Udama mass( This is the practice of attending mass as a parish in one station rotationally). Above all all Fr. Cyril saw to the surveying of the parish land especially in Igbedor.
Fr. Cyril was succeeded by Fr. Ignatius Okeke( fr. Ichie Ohabuike) who introduced another method of evangelization called Inculturation.
Rev. Fr. Augustine Anyanwu took over from Fr. Ignatius. He did his pastoral work in his own way by mobilizing the Catholic to brotherly love and interstational relationship.
Rev. Fr. Gabriel Ezeanya succeeded Fr. Anyanwu. He can be best described as the messiah of the parish as he was the one who renovated the fathers house and replaced the damaged wooden boats. The climax of his achievement in Egeoja parish was the building of the modern church in igbedor within a year and five months.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
IFITE-OGWARI
st. anthony of padua parish
St. Anthony of Padua’s parish Ifite-Ogwari was created in 1981. The population of the parish during the last census is about Twenty-Thousand (20,000). The First Holy Mass was celebrated in the parish in August 1981 by Rev. Fr. Benjamin Mbata of Enugu Diocese.
List of Pious Societies in the parish are: Legion of Mary, St. Anthony’s Society, St. Theresa’s Society, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Purgatorian Society, Precious Blood of Jesus, Friends of Jesus, Father Tansi Solidarity Movement, Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Nigeria, Infant Jesus, Marian Movement of Priests, Divine Mercy, Queen of all Hearts, Block Rosary Crusade and Blue Army.
However, with the creation of Nsukka Diocese in 1991, St. Anthony’s Parish moved automatically from Enugu Diocese to Nsukka Diocese. As at that time, there were only two completed church buildings; though yet to be dedicated, that were standing in the entire Nsukka Diocese. The churches are; St. Anthony’s Ifite Ogwari and St. Theresa’s Akiyi Umulokpa. St. Anthony of Padua’s parish, Ifite-Ogwari was handed over from Nsukka Diocese by Most Rev. Dr. F. E. Okobo to His Grace, late Most Rev. Dr. Albert K. Obiefuna, Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese on the 25th November, 1998.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
IGBAKWU
st. mary's parish
St. Mary’s Parish Igbakwu was carved out from St. Anthony’s Parish, Ifite Ogwari on 1st January 2006 with Rev. Fr. Michael Aguna as the first oarish priest.
St. Mary’s Parish during the last census had a number of about seven hundred faithful.
The first Holy Mass in the oarish was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Michael Aguna on 1st January 2006.
Parish Pious Societies : St. Anthony’s society, legion of mary, Block Rosary crusade, charismatic renewal, purgatory society, infant Jesus.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
IGBARIAM
st. anthony's parish
St. Anthony’s Parish Igbariam was created in 1090 with Rev. Fr. Joseph Shanahan as the first parish priest. In 1912, the church established St. Anthony’s teachers training college in Igbariam.
On 19th July 1924, St. Paul’s seminary was established in Igbariam with Rev. Fr. William O. Donell. He was succeeded by Rev. Fr. Charles Heerey (later Archbishop ). Blessed Iwene Tansi among others joined the Seminary in 1925.
There were no admissions in 1927 and 1928 due to first world War which also lead to lack of teaching staffs and students.
The Seminarians and Seminary moved up to St. Mary’s parish Onitsha in 1928. This closure affected bothe the Seminary and parish.
In 1981, the parish was re-established as an outstation to Nando.
Parish Pious Societies : St. Anthony’s guild, St. Jude’s society, Tansi solidarity, Sacred Heart of Jesus, legion of mary, charismatic renewal, Block Rosary crusade.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. benedict udeogwu
IGBARIAM
holy trinity farm settlement
The beginning of the catholic church in farm Settlement dates back to 1962. It all started like planting a mustard seed on the 15th day of November 1962 when the first batch of 129 settled. Some settlers who were brought up with good catholic background saw no churches around to carry out their religious obligations. Very few of them were able to attend church services at the neighboring communities, namely Nando and Achalla. It became cumbersome to trek long distance to attend masses so they decided to organize their own prayers on Sundays.
In 1964, Late Mr. David Ezeani was sent with a request to the parish priest of St. Joseph Aguleri for a priest to be celebrating masses for them. The priest accepted their request on Holy Trinity Sunday in 1964.
Holy Trinity station then became an outstation to St. Raphael’s Awkuzu and later on to St. Anthony’s Igbariam in 1981. In 2003, Holy Trinity farm settlement was pronounced as a parish with Rev. Fr. Raymond Akpunonu as the pioneer parish priest
Parish Pious Societies : charismatic renewal, legion of mary, divine mercy, tansi solidarity, st. Anthony of Padua, Block Rosary crusade
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
IGBOKENYI
st. michael's parish
The parish of St. Michael Parish, Igbokenyi began in 1954 as an outstation of St. Joseph Parish Aguleri. The first baptism was conducted in 1955 and the first confirmation took place in 1956. In 1978, Nzam became a parish, and St. Micheal’s church, Igbokenyl was established. The first parish priest was Rev. Fr. Anisiobi Hillary, who was later replaced by Rev. Fr. Joseph. In 1998, Holy Trinity Parish, Ega-oja was established, and St. Michael’s became an outstation under it. In 2013, Igbokenyi was promoted to an independent station, and in 2014, a large plot of land was marked out for St. Michael’s parish, Igbokenyi.
On 12th March, 2016, St. Michael’s outstation was elevated to the status of a parish by his grace; Most Rev. Fr. Valerian Okeke.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
INOMA
st. jude thaddeus parish
St. Jude’s parish Inoma began as an outstation of St. Augustine’s parish Umuoba in 1936. The missionaries visited Inoma once in six to nine months because of the numerous outstation and limited number of priests.
When the missionaries arrived in 1937, the elders and chief of the community warmly received them and donated lands which were used to build a school ‘St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic mission school Inoma’ which served as both school for weekdays and place of worship on Sundays.
The history of St. Jude’s Inoma would be incomplete without mentioning Fr. HilaryMary Anisiobi who was the parish priest of St. Mary’s parish Nzam. He made remarkable impacts in the spiritual and physical aspect of the Inoma people.
The journey to parish status began in December 2002.l, when Fr. John Emeka Okafor was the parish priest of Nzam. He pleaded with the Inoma community for a permanent site for the church building on behalf of the Catholics in Inoma and his request was granted. He was replaced by Rev. Fr. Luke Omaliko.
In March 2006, St. Jude’s station was elevated to the status of an independent station and under the administration of Rev. Fr. Luke Omaliko; it was made a parish by his Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NANDO
st. joan of arc parish
Christianity came to Nando in 1908. The catholic missionaries set up two schools in Nando. One was located at Amaokpobili village and the other at Amaibito village of Ikem Nando.
In 1920; with the assistance of some notable men of Nando, a school and church was set up in Nando and was christened St. Joan or Arc primary school and St. Joan of Arc Church respectively.
In 1967, a physical foundation was laid to immortalize the patron Saint of Nando catholic church, St. Joan of Arc. This building was later on devastated during the Civil War in 1967 to 1970. At the end of the war, another foundation for the presbytery was laid and as soon as the presbytery was completed, the church was raised to the status of a full fledged parish. On 31st December 1993, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Nwabude; the pioneer parish priest celebrated the first holy Mass.
Parish Pious Societies : charismatic renewal, legion of mary, divine mercy, tansi solidarity, st. Anthony of Padua, Block Rosary crusade
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NANDO
st. jude's parish
St. Jude’s parish was created in January 2007 by Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, the Archbishop of Onitsha. It began as an outstation of St. Joan of Arc Nando. Rev. Fr. Anthony Idigo was the parish priest of Sr. Joan of Arc when it was created as a parish in 2007, he was succeeded by Rev. Fr. John Emeka Okafor.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, our lady of perpetual help, tansi solidarity, st. anthony’s society charismatic renewal, mother of perpetual help, sacred heart, Block rosary crusade
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NANDO
st. francis parish
The first attempt by the Roman Catholic Mission to establish a mission in Ikem Nando was made between 1885 and 1891 as Nando was the third place the missionaries visited after Onitsha and Aguleri. Unfortunately, Ikem Nando was very far from the river and the missionaries couldn’t trek. They therefore resorted to sending catechists.
It could be said that the main instrument of evangelization used by the church was schools as Rev. Fr. Holohan established St. Francis primary school at Ikem.
From Inception, St. Francis has been an outstation of St. Joseph’s Aguleri and when St. Anthony’s parish Igbariam was carved out, it moved with her as an outstation. In 1987, the people of Ikem Nando gathered together to plan for the constuction of the church building and as such, donations were made to achieve this. The construction of the church building kicked off between 1987 and 1989.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, our lady of perpetual help, tansi solidarity, st. anthony’s society charismatic renewal, mother of perpetual help, sacred heart, Block rosary crusade
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NKWELLE EZUNAKA
St. William's parish
The present day St. William’s parish Nkwelle was an outstation of St. Augustine’s parish Umuoba, Anam. It was not until 1977 that it was made a parish by Archbishop Francis Arinze. Rev. Fr. Jude Okafor was Appointed as the Pioneer parish priest that same year.
Since the inception of the parish, the population of the faithful amount up to three thousand persons.
Outstation: St. Anthony’s outstation Green gate (now a parish)
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, our lady of perpetual help, tansi solidarity, st. anthony’s society charismatic renewal, mother of perpetual help, sacred heart, Block rosary crusade
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NKWELLE EZUNAKA
st. stephen's chaplaincy
We cannot comprehend the fullness of the history of this chaplaincy without speaking of the brothers of St. Stephens.
The congretation of the brothers of St. Stephen was gounded by his eminence; Cardinal Francis Arinze on 21st March, 1975. The congregation later went into land negotiation with Akpukwu family of Ifite village Nkwelle under the chairmanship of Chief Joe Ilobi. The foundation stone of the Novitiate of brothers of St. Stephen’s was laid by his eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze on 17th August, 1977.
St’ William’s parish from which the chaplaincy was later carved out began on Saturday 11th March, 1978. During the administration of Very Rev. Mgsr. M Obiukwu; St. Stephen was declared an outstation of St. William’s Nkwelle. The brothers of St. Stephen helped in providing for the spiritual needs of the faithful in the outstation.
In 2015, it became expedient as the people of God were increasing in number to make it an independent station, His grace therefore on 14th October 2015 canonically carved it out from St. William’s parish Nkwelle and appointed Rev. Fr. Ndubuisi of the brothers of St. Stephen as her chaplain. The first mass was celebrated as a chaplaincy on 21st October 2015.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, charismatic renewal, mother of perpetual help, sacred heart, St. Stephen’s group, Block rosary crusade
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NKWELLE EZUNAKA
st. peter's parish, ozeh
St. Peter’s parish Oze began as an outstation of St. Williams parish Nkwelle. The first holy mass as St. Peter was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Denis Nwafor in October 1991, when St, Peter’s was made an outstation.
In December 2006, The outstation was elevated to the status of an independent station and then to the status of a parish on 26th September, 2012 by Most Rev. Valerian Okeke with the appointment of Rev. Fr. Martin Atumanya as the firsst administrator
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, charismatic renewal, mother of perpetual help, sacred heart
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
nKWELLE EZUNAKA
st. theophilius parish
St. Theophilius parish Nkwelle started gradually like any other parish. When the first group of people packed into new generation estate in 2011, there was a need for a place of worship. The Catholic faithful in the estate met with Fr. Theophilius Odukwe who was the spiritual director of New generation multipurpose co-operative society, requesting that mass be celebrated for them. Thus the first holy mass was celebrated at the site given to Catholic by the estate managers on 16th October, 2011. The memebers of the new church decidedto name it after the patron saint of the generous spiritual director, hence ‘St Theophilius’
On October 24th, 2014, St. Theophilius station was elevated too the status of an independent station by Most Rev. Valerian Okeke with Rev. Fr. MArtin Atumanya as her first administrator
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, charismatic renewal, mother of perpetual help, sacred heart
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NKWELLE EZUNAKA
St. JohnPaul iI parish Oyolu layout
St. Johnpaul II parish was carved out from St. Theresa’s parish in 2006. At early stages, masses were being celebrated at different wards. It is also worthy to note that Mr. and Mrs. Nwokedike voluntarily donated their private residence for the celebration of masses but as time went on, there was need for a larger building to accommodate the population. The church then had to be moved to K. C Obidun’s residence.
In march 2010, His grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke elevated the station to the status of an independent station with juridical title Johnpaul II Independent station and appointed Rev. Fr. Emma Ndubuisi B.S.S. as the chaplian.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NKWELLE EZUNAKA
st. augustine's parish, oyolu layout
St. Augustine’s parish was carved out from Pope JohnPaul II parish Maryland 3-3 as an independent station on 7th october 2016. it was made up of two communities: St. Augustine community with mass center as Mrs. Chika Ude’s’ compound and Our lady of Assumption community with mass center at Obiorah Chukwuka’s ccompound.
The independent station took off with its first holy mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Benjamin Okonkwo the pioneer parish priest.
On March, 2016, the independent station was elevated to the status of a parish by his grace; Most Rev. Valerian Okeke.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NKWELLE EZUNAKA
Our Lady Queen of Apostle's parish, omeife 3-3
Year of creation: 16th October, 2016
Date of First Mass: 16th October, 2016
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
NSUGBE
st. john de baptist parish
n 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.
parish priest: Rev. Fr.
nSUGBE
st. joseph's parish, abata
St. Joseph’s Parish began with a donation of a portion of land to the Catholic mission by the Ogwuari-Nsugbe community in 1947 to alleviate the difficulties encountered by those who had to travel from Abata to Ime Nsugbe for masses or school. It was located a few metres from Oye Abata- Nsugbe and a thatched mud house was then erected on it. It was administered by the priests in charge of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Nsugbe as its outstation.
in 1956, a block building was constructed to cater for the ever increasing number of people in this area before the thatched house finally fell off after the civil war. Then in 2004, with the assistance of the Archdioces of Onitsha and the help of a few individuals, the current church building was erected.
Outstation: St. Rita’s station and St. Valerian station.
Parish Pious Societies: mother of perpetual help, legion of mary, charismatic renewal,Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest: Rev. Fr. Tochukwu Uyammadu
NTEJE
sacred heart parish
Sacred heart parish Nteje became a parish in 1906 with Rev. Fr. Doulvry Cssp as the first resident priest and parish priest. As a tool for envagelization, Fr. Doulvry started the elementary school. In 1909, the first Chapel was built at Nteje.
In 1922, a fatal blow hit the Nteje mission. On 25th November, 1922, Fr. Bubendorf announced that the ‘ajo ofia’ (evil forest), Ogene Shrine which was greatly feared will be cleared. After the exercise, it was reported that many young men who participated in the task died. The people capitalized that the church must go while protesting by painting their bodies and staging the infamous ‘Ojome dance’. Fr. Bubendorf considered this as an eyesore and immediately hurries to Onitsha to inform the Archbishop of the development.
After 25 years, the missionaries returned to Nteje after meeting up the criteria set by Bishop Charles Heerey in 1948. During the administartion of Rev. Fr. Ajakor, the commencement of a new church building commenced and completed in 1980.
Outstations: Amadiaba Outstation, Achalla-Agu Outstation
Parish Pious Societies: purgatorian society, mother of perpetual help, legion of mary, sacred heart of Jesus, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
NTEJE
st. anthony's parish
St. Anthony’s parish Nteje was carved out from Sacred heart parish Nteje by his Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke on the 29th day of September, 2010. As a parisg, the first holy mass was celebrated at St. Anthony’s Parish Ifite Nteje on sunday on 10th October, 2010 with Rev. Fr. Josephat Nzekwesi as the pioneer parish priest.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, sacred heart of Jesus, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
NZAM
st. mary's parish
Christianity kicked off in Nzam in 1934 when Fr. Francis Oboyan, a german priest was sent from the Aguleri mission to the preach to the people at Odeh, Odomagu and Nzam. He was accompanied by Mr. Sylvester Izualor. Their message was at first rejected at Nzam because they were likened to slave traders but on a second visit and with the aid of the king, they were able to preach the gospel and establish a mission school ‘St. Mary’s School Nzam’.
On August 1878, the then Archbishop of Onitsha, his eminence, Francis Cardinal Arinze responding to the indefatiable work of the then parish priest of Umuoba Anam, late Mgsr. Joseph Nwaibegbunam, created St. Mary’s parish from Our Lady of Lourdes parish, Mmiata as the first Igala speaking parish in Onitsha Archdiocese.
Parish Pious Societies: fr. tansi solidarity movement, catholic charismatic renewal.
parish priest:
ODEH
christ the king
The light of the gospel came to Odeh in the year 1934, through Rev. Fr. Joseph Delaney from St. Joseph’s Catholic church, Aguleri. He was accompanied by Mr. Sylvester Izualor, a teacher of a native of Nando as an interpreter to the white man who did not understand Igala or Igbo Language.
Fr. Delaney was later assisted by other missionaries such as Rev. Fr. Sweeny, Kettle, Vincent, Brendan and Anthony Barin. Having been accepted by the Odeh community, they settled down and erected mud and thatched houses which served as their church for Sunday services and as mission school. Later, in 1936, a bigger edifice was built and was named Christ the King, Odeh.
With the rapid growth of the evangelization, Nzam was carved out as the parish for the Igala speaking communities of the Anambra west Local Government. As an outstation of St. Mary’s Catholic church Nzam, the faithful in Odeh began to increase in numbers.
With the aid of Rev. Fr. Aloy Enemali who made several contacts with the Archbishop, Christ the King station was made a parish with Rev. Fr. Evaristus Nwagbara as the administrator.. On 22nd September, 2013 during the maiden visit of his grace Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, Christ the King parish was elevated to the status of a parish.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
oGBUNIKE
st. vincent de paul's parish
St. Vincent’s Catholic church was created in 1992, after the sojourn of years from old Dunukofia parish as the last parish to be carved out.
Rev. Fr. Pius Nweke the pioneer parish priest celebrated the first holy mass of the newly created parish on 10th Octover, 1992. Since the creation of the parish, the number of faithful amount for over five thousand.
On 27th December, 2000, St. Vincent’s parish was re-dedicated to the lord.
Outstations: St. Michael’s Osile
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
OGBUNIKE
st. stephen's parish
The history of the advent of the missionaries in Ogbunike dates back to 1912, when Fr. Louis Ward Cssp and brother Adelme ward Cssp first visited Chief Ezechukwu Obidimma of Azu, Ogbunike. The visit was blessed with the donation of 15 plots of land to be used in construction of both church and burial ground.
In 1931, Ogbamgba primary school (formerly St. Vincent’s Catholic school) was constructed. In 1943, Fr. Tansi decided to transfer in Ogbamgba, Azu Ogbunike to a central place in Ogbunike. A new site in Nkwo Amawa Ogbunike was offered and accepted. Fr. Tansi first moved the school and parish much later on but some people did not like the decision and in protest began to make contributions to build a church in their village. It took them 30years (1978 – 2008) to achieve this dream.
The new parish was inaugurated in 2004 with the appointment of Rev. Fr. Ignatius Okonkwo as the parish priest,
parish priest:
OGBUNIKE
st. Michael the archangel parish
The history of St. Michael the Archangel parish, Ogbunike cannot be written without mentioning St. Anthony, Umudioka and Fr. Tansi. In 1943 when Fr. Tansi decided to have a mass center in Ogbunike; elder Okogba of Umukubuagha, Osile Ogbunike donated an expanse of land where the present parish lies.
In September 2016, St Michael the Archangel parish was elevated to the status of a parish by Most Rev. Valerian Okeke and Rev. Fr. Stephen Odinde was appointed as the pioneer parish priest.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
OMASI-AGU
st. paul's parish
St. Paul’s Parish was carved out of St. Anthony’s Ifite-Ogwari in an effort to bring the church closer to the people and for easy propagation of the gospel.
Hence, St. Paul’s parish was created with Rev. Fr. Vincent Obi as the pioneer parish priest. The first holy mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Vincent Obi on 21st January, 2007.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
OMASI-UNO
st. andrew's parish
St. Andrew’s parish began as an outstation of Christ the King parish, Adani.
The creation of Anambra state from Enugu state led to the division of the Catholic faithful in Christ the King parish Adazi. The issues was pastorally handled by the church, hence the one time outstation of Christ the King parish Adazi later became an outstation of St. Anthony’s parish Ifite-Ogwari. The parish was carved out from St. Anthony’s parish Ifite-Ogwari in January 2007 with Rev. Fr. Fidelis Chiefe as the pioneer parish priest.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal.
parish priest:
OMOR
christ the king parish
Christ the King Parish, Omor was carved out of Ifite-ogwari parish in 1990. The first holy mass was celebrated in 1990 by Rev. Fr. Ambrose Azegba.
On November 25, 1998 the parish was moved from Nsukka diocese to Onitsha Archdiocese.
In April 2012, Christ the King, Omor was dedicated to the lord by his Grace; Most Rev. Valerian Okeke.
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, tansi solidarity, charismatic renewal, divine mercy group, bible society, St. Anthony’s society, Marian Movement, precious blood.
parish priest:
OMOR
st. luke's parish
St. Luke’s parish was created on Saturday, 12th March 2016 by his grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke during the Archdiocesan pastoral council meeting held at Shanahan hall when all independent stations were upgraded to the status of a parish.
Fr. Paul Ihebighi the first parish priest of St. Luke’s Omor celebrated the first holy Mass in St. Luke’s parish Omor on Sunday, 13th March
Pious Societies : charismatic renewal, catholic Bible society, legion of mary, Marian movement, st. Anthony’s guild, divine mercy devotion, Block Rosary crusade, queen of all hearts
parish priest:
OMOR
st. paul's parish
St. Paul’s parish, Omor was created on 30th August, 2009 by his grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke. Then on Sunday 20th September, 2009 Fr. Vincent A. Obidinnu celebrated his first Mass with his parishioners at Orenja Primary School, Omor.
The population of the parishioners amounts for over hundred and seventy-six.
Outstation : St. Luke’s parish, Omor now St. Luke’s parish Omor.
Pious Societies : charismatic renewal, catholic Bible society, legion of mary, Marian movement, st. Anthony’s guild, divine mercy devotion, Block Rosary crusade, queen of all hearts
parish priest:
ONONO
st. patrick's parish
The parish was created on 4th October, 2017 with the appointment of Rev. Fr. Peter Okongwu as the pioneer parish priest. It first began as an outstation of St. Mary’s Parish Umudora Anam.
Pious Societies : Block Rosary crusade, charismatic renewal, legion of mary
parish priest:
OWELLE UKWALA
st. vincent de paul's parish
St. Vincent the Paul parish Owelle Ukwala began as an independent station on September 2009 with Fr. Peter Olisa
Pious Societies : charismatic renewal, st. Anthony society, legion of mary, blue army, Block Rosary crusade, infant Jesus society, divine mercy
parish priest:
UMUEJE
st. joseph's parish
Year or creation: January 14th, 2007
Pioneer parish priest: Rev. Fr. Peter Egwuonwu
Pious Societies : charismatic renewal, st. Anthony society, legion of mary, blue army, Block Rosary crusade, infant Jesus society, divine mercy
parish priest:
UMERUM
st. mary's parish
In 1917, the Catholic church in Umerum was opened by Re. Fr. Mac Namar and was attached to the Aguleri oarish for years.
In 1950, when Akiyi parish was carved out from Aku parish St. Mary’s Umuerum was added to it but was later on transferred to the Nsukka division in 1953.
The parish in Akiyi was captured during the Civil War. After the war, it was transferred from Akiyi parish to Nimbo parish under the administration of Rev. Fr. Cletus Aleke, the parish priest. From Nimbo, it was transferred again to Ifite-Ogwari parish.
In December 2004, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke elevated St. Mary’s Umuerum to the status of a parish.
Pious Societies : Legion of Mary, Block Rosary, Sacred Heart, Marian movement for priests, mary league, charismatic renewal
parish priest:
UMUERI
our lady of victory's parish
Ss Peter & Paul was established I. 1894 marking the beginning of Christianity in Umuleri. Rev. Fr. Bisch first set his foot on the soil followed by Rev. Fr. Joseph Bubendorf.
Our Lady of Victory parish as an outstation to St. Joseph Aguleri. In 1956, Rev. Fr. Thomas Sweeney in collaboration with the Umueri community in Otuocha established Our Lady of Victory School which served as a building for both school activities on weekdays and Liturgical activities on Sundays.
In 1978, under the administration of Archbishop Francis Arinze now Cardinal, Our Lady of Victory Umueri was made a parish
Pious Societies : Legion of Mary, Block Rosary, Sacred Heart, Marian movement for priests, mary league, charismatic renewal
parish priest:
UMUERI
st. mark's parish
St. Mark’s parish began as an outstation of Our Lady of Victory Umueri since 1933. The former site for the outstation was St. Mark’s primary school Nneyi Umueri. The outstation was elevated to the status of a parish on 10th January, 2008 by his Grace; Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke the Archbishop of Onitsha.
Since the inception of the Parish, the population of the faithful amount over six thousand.
Date of First Holy Mass: 13th January, 2008 by Rev. Fr. Cyprian Ubaka the first parish priest.
Outstations: St. Kelvin Ogbu, St. Anthony Mgbede.
Pious Societies : St. Anthony Society, Divine mercy, tansi solidarity, precious blood, charismatic renewal, legion of mary, block rosary, mary league
parish priest:
UMUMBO
ss. peter & paul
Year of creation: 15th January, 2006
Date of First Holy Mass: 17th January, 2006 with Rev. Fr. John Ekwunife as Chief celebrant
Date of Dedication of the parish; 10th May, 2015 by his Lordship, Most Rev. Denis Isizoh
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, St. Anthony society, st. jude, tansi solidarity.
parish priest:
UMUNYA
st. theresa's parish
The catholic church stepped on Umunya soil in 1915, through Rev. Fr. Bubendorf who was welcomed at Odumodu Ani and immediately a structure for worship was set up in support of the mission
After some years at Odumodu Ani, the Christians began asking for a larger area of land to accommodate the increasing converts, thus a new site was established at Ajakpana, where the present parish is today.
Between 1937 and 1939, Umunya was attached to Adazu parish leading to a decline in the Catholic faith in Umunya considering the distance covered while trekking to Adazi for Sunday masses. Umunya then sent delegates to Archbishop Charles Heerey; the then Archbishop of Onitsha to plead with him to return Umunya to Aguleri. This request was granted immediately.
In 1940, Umunya and nine other towns under Aguleri such as Awkuzu, Enugu-agidi, Nawgu joint the newly created parish in Umudioka. After the Civil War, Umunya was merged with Onitsha Archdiocese and was made a parish in 1988 by his grace; Most Rev. Stephen Ezeanya
Parish Pious Societies: legion of mary, mary league, St. Anthony society, st. jude, tansi solidarity.