Missionary Apostolate of Onitsha Archdiocese
Donation of Faith
The Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha embraces the fundamental understanding that the Church is missionary by nature, as affirmed in Ad Gentes.
Guided by the pastoral motto of our Archbishop, Most Rev. Valerian M. Okeke, “That they may have life” (Jn. 10:10), we are committed to fulfilling our mission of spreading the Gospel with truth and conviction, reaching across borders and cultures to bring the message of Christ’s love and salvation to all.
Our Archdiocese is home to 498 diocesan and religious priests, alongside over 718 Religious Men and Women, who minister to a vibrant community of approximately 2,185,561 Catholics. In a unique economic and social context, our mission is both a challenge and a call to bear authentic, practical, and life-changing witness to Jesus Christ. Our efforts span across vital areas such as effective catechesis, providing food to the hungry, offering medical services, and ensuring quality education to youth, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Shanahan University Onitsha — an initiative designed to foster positive change both locally and internationally.
Every year, our Mission Cooperation Plan continues to make an increasing impact, as we see more lives touched and transformed. In 2024, we embarked on a new venture with the establishment of Shanahan University an initiative designed to foster positive change both locally and internationally. This institution proudly awarded full scholarships to over 412 meritorious students, equipping them with the tools to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
We are Spreading Faith & Building Bridges.
God’s blessings have also been evident in the growing number of young men and women embracing priestly and religious vocations, as well as living good Catholic lives. Many of our priests are pursuing further studies abroad, enriching our presbyterate with fresh ministerial insights and strengthening our mission.
We are committed to sharing the fruits of our labor and missionary work with dioceses not only in Nigeria, but also in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the United States. As we continue our efforts, we extend an invitation for your generous support and cooperation in advancing this divine mission. Together, let us proclaim the Gospel, serve the vulnerable, and spread the light of Christ’s love to the ends of the earth.
Contact Our Mission Coordinators|
- Rev Fr. Ignatius Okonkwo - Mission Coordinator. +1 (269) 267-1278
- Rev Fr Patrick Okonkwo -+1 (320) 583-0423 Assistant Mission Coordinator
- Rev Fr Vincent Obi - +1 (618) 384-1650
- Mission mailing address: 20403 Encino Ledge Suite 59193, San Antonio, TX 78259
2024 Pastoral Letter
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God”, is one of the most important statements of Jesus Christ in the Scriptures. It contains both a challenge and a promise which are fundamental to the Christian life. (art 4)
BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART
“Archbishop Valerian Okeke “
