The ancient kingdom of Emekuku in Imo State recorded a historic moment on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, as the representative of the Holy Father in Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, paid a special visit to Mt. Carmel Catholic mother Parish Emekuku.
The Papal Nuncio was warmly received by the Traditional Ruler of Emekuku Ancient Kingdom, HRM Eze Obi Ejeshi (Ezeukwu IV), alongside the Dean of Emekuku Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Stephen Egwim, in an event marking the grand finale of the 75th anniversary of the inauguration of the Catholic ArchDiocese of Owerri (Diamond Jubilee).
Most Rev. Crotty arrived in the company of the Archbishop of Owerri, His Grace Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the Archbishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Anthony J.V. Obinna, and the Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev. Moses Chikwe.
In his address, the Papal Nuncio—himself of Irish descent—recounted the deep-rooted connection between Emekuku and the early Irish missionaries who, under challenging conditions, brought the Catholic faith to the community decades ago.
He emphasized the significance of sustaining this heritage, urging the faithfuls to preserve the faith with renewed commitment: "Christian faith is a gift you should not consign to history," he said.
"Revive this faith and ensure it is joyfully shared by individuals, families, and communities."
Most Rev. Crotty praised the perseverance and sacrifice of the Irish missionaries, noting that their dedication sprang from profound love for the Church and the mission of evangelization.
As part of the ceremony, a formal address from the mother parish—signed by Mr. Anthony Obichere (PPC Chairman), Sir Elias Duru (DPC Chairman), Very Rev. Fr. Stephen Egwim (Parish Priest/Dean), and Lady Chinyere (PPC/DPC Secretary)—paid glowing tribute to Chief Ejeshi Obi(paramount ruler then) who brought the missionaries to Emekuku and a pillar to early missionaries in Emekuku through his support.
The statement highlighted Chief Obi’s selfless contributions, particularly his provision of permanent accommodation for the early missionaries, a gesture that greatly stabilized their work in the region.
The parish leadership noted that the legacy of generosity and service has been sustained by his descendant and the present traditional ruler, HRM Obi Ejeshi KSM, JP, Ezeukwu 1V, Emekuku Ancient Kingdom who has continued in the same spirit of support and community leadership.
The visit of the Papal Nuncio—an Irishman—to Emekuku was widely seen as a symbolic reconnection with the Irish missionary roots and the community as the headquarter of Catholicism through the present day Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Rivers and some parts of Bayelsa State. For many, it marked a spiritual homecoming and a reaffirmation of Emekuku’s historic place in the growth of Catholicism in Owerri ArchDiocese.
The event concluded with blessings, cultural reception, and a renewed call for the faithful to uphold and transmit the cherished gift of Catholic faith to future generations.
Report By Fredrick Njoku