From Pioneers to Leaders: The Evolution of the Catholic Church in Igbo Communities

The Anglican Church was the first church established in Igbo communities, marking a significant milestone in the region’s history. The Anglican mission arrived in Igboland in 1857, with Onitsha as the first spot of missionary propagation.

Reverend J.C. Taylor, an ex-Igbo slave and a convert from Sierra Leone, led the mission. After negotiations with the Onitsha reigning monarch, Akazua, the British established trading posts and the mission station started. The Onitsha king allocated land for the headquarters of the mission station.

The Anglican Church however, played a crucial role in abolishing harmful cultural practices that were prevalent in Igbo society. Through its teachings and advocacy, the church helped to promote human rights and dignity.

Furthermore, the church’s presence in Igbo communities fostered social cohesion and unity. The church served as a gathering place for worship, fellowship, and community events.

The Anglican Church also contributed to the economic development of Igbo communities. The church established various projects and initiatives that provided employment opportunities and improved the standard of living for the people.

In addition to its spiritual and social impact, the church also played a role in preserving Igbo culture and traditions. The church recognized the value of Igbo cultural practices and worked to incorporate them into its teachings and practices.

The church’s commitment to community development has however, continued to this day. The Anglican Church in Igboland invests in healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation projects to address the needs of the people.

Despite the challenges, the Anglican Church remains vital in Igbo communities. Its impact on the social, cultural, and economic development of Igbo society is undeniable.

In conclusion, the Anglican Church has significantly shaped Igbo communities since the 19th century. The Anglican Church has left an indelible mark on the Igbo people through education, social welfare, and community development. Additionally, as the church continues to evolve, the Anglican Church remains a beacon of hope and progress in Igboland.

Currently, the Catholic Church is the most widely attended church in Igbo communities. The Nigerian Igbo Catholic Community (NICC) has been established in cities like Baltimore, San Jose, and Sacramento.

The NICC in Sacramento, for example, has been in existence since 1998 and currently has around 300 members. They work to promote Igbo Christian culture, tradition, values, and faith through their liturgy. Igbo Catholic communities serve as avenues for community building and cultural isolation overcoming.

The NICC started offering Igbo Mass at Church of the Little Flower in Baltimore in 1996. In 1997, NICC moved to St. Mathew Catholic Church in Baltimore, pastured by Rev. Fr. Joseph Muth, Jr.

Today, the NICC celebrates its Igbo Mass on the last Sunday of every month. NICC’s vision is to attain parish status with a permanent Igbo-speaking priest.

The NICC Women Wing aims to provide spiritual formation and social enrichment to its members as it takes shape. They are also developing a curriculum for the cultural and religious enrichment of their children.