Catholic Diocese of Aguleri Ordains their First Set of Priests

On September 27, 2024, the Catholic Diocese of Aguleri marked a historic milestone by ordaining its first set of priests. The ordination ceremony took place at St. Joseph's Catholic Cathedral in Ugwu Ndi Uka, Aguleri. The newly ordained priests were Rev. Menuba Damian from Umueri, Rev. Okonkwo Innocent from Ifite-Ogwari, Rev. Edozie Christopher from Nando, and Rev. Anadumaka Patrick from Mmiata Anam. 

The event was attended by numerous faithful, clergy, and family members of the new priests, highlighting the community's strong support and the significance of this milestone for the diocese.

Most Rev. Denis Chidi Isizoh, the Bishop of Aguleri, who had been serving as the Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha since 2015, presided over the ordination. Bishop Isizoh described the new priests as the "first fruits" of the diocese, emphasizing the growing strength and development of the Catholic Church in the region. His deep familiarity with the area, having ministered in Onitsha for several years, positions him well to lead the new diocese through its early stages of growth and outreach.

Bishop Isizoh has outlined several priorities for the diocese, including reaching remote and riverine areas, addressing challenges such as flooding and early marriages, and providing pastoral care for the girl child. These initiatives reflect the bishop's commitment to addressing both spiritual and social needs within the diocese, aiming to foster holistic development and stronger community bonds.

The Catholic Diocese of Aguleri was carved out from the Archdiocese of Onitsha and established by Pope Francis on February 12, 2023. It has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The first Catholic mission in Aguleri began in 1888 when Fr. Lutz and his companions arrived, initially met with resistance but later settled with the help of Chief Idigo, establishing what became the Ugwu Ndi Uka (Hill of the Faithful) Christian Village in 1890. This site became pivotal for the spread of Christianity in the area, with the first formal school established by 1889 and a church built in 1895. Over the decades, the mission expanded to include various social services and institutions, such as schools and hospitals, reflecting the growing Catholic community's needs.