Igbo Catholics celebrate first infant baptism
News
The Igbo Catholics in South Australia have celebrated their first infant baptism since the establishment of the Igbo-language Mass at Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Church, Kingswood.
The baptism was officiated by Fr Chisom Ekene Ilechukwu whose priestly role has remained central to the growth and development of the community.
The historic event symbolised not only the child’s initiation into the Catholic faith but also the continuity and future of the Igbo Catholic Community in South Australia. Members expressed gratitude to God as the ceremony reflected spiritual fulfilment, cultural pride and communal unity.
The vision for a Igbo language Catholic Mass began when Nnaemeka Umenzeakor, then a Master of Social Work student, approached his fellow student and priest, Fr Chisom, to discuss the need to assemble Igbo Catholics in South Australia for worship in their native language. The idea was driven by a strong desire to preserve Igbo cultural identity, language and spirituality within Catholic worship.
Through consultations, planning and sustained engagement, the long-held aspiration of Igbo Catholics in South Australia gradually became a reality.
Music has played a vital role in strengthening the community’s liturgical life. The formation of the Igbo Choir Team has been a significant boost, with special acknowledgement given to Anthony Nwagwu who coordinated the choir from its inception. His dedication was instrumental in the choir’s participation at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral on October 12 during the feast of St Daniel Comboni Mass, where Igbo hymns enriched the celebration and showcased Igbo liturgical expression within the wider Archdiocese.
The activities of the Igbo Catholics were further elevated on September 28 during the Migrant and Refugee Sunday Mass, celebrated by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan at the cathedral. Young Ada Idika-Uduma, daughter of Mazi Mba and Laureta Idika-Uduma, represented the Igbo Community by delivering the Prayer of the Faithful in the Igbo language. Her participation was widely applauded as a powerful symbol of faith being passed on to the next generation.
Currently, the Igbo Catholics in South Australia are preparing for the World Day of Prayer for Nigeria in March. The upcoming event reflects the community’s continued spiritual connection to Nigeria and its commitment to praying for peace, unity and progress in their homeland.
The Igbo people worldwide are predominantly Catholic and honour Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi as their patron saint, a symbol of priestly holiness, cultural pride, and unwavering faith. Public relations officer Nnaemeka Umenzeakor said the steady growth and achievements of the Igbo Catholic Community in South Australia stand as a testimony to vision, perseverance, unity, and the enduring strength of faith deeply rooted in culture.
