A new chapter was written in South Australia’s religious and cultural history as the Igbo Catholic faithful gathered for Mass in their own language for the first time. Source: The Southern Cross.
The landmark celebration was held at Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Church, Kingswood on June 29, in a significant moment for the local Igbo Catholic community and the broader multicultural congregation.
The event drew more than 70 worshippers from across the region, including professionals, students and families from diverse backgrounds.
The Mass was celebrated by Fr Chisom Ekene Ilechukwu, with Fr Emmanuel Ugochukwu Ubaezuonu CSSp serving as co-celebrant.
Traditional Igbo hymns, prayers and rituals evoked a sense of belonging and connection to the identity of the Igbo people of southeast Nigeria.
Joseph Amaefuna, president of the Igbo Community of South Australia, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the congregation and all who contributed to the event’s success.
“We felt at home today,” he said. “Our aim is to make this place a home away from home. Let us also remember our families in Igboland and Nigeria in our prayers, especially those going through hardships.”
Fr Ilechukwu, in his closing remarks, thanked the Adelaide Archdiocese and all participants for their support in bringing the vision to life.
“Your presence today is a testament to our unity and faith,” he said.
Speaking after the Mass, the public relations officer for the Igbo Community of South Australia, Nnaemeka Umenzeakor, said it was a “powerful reconnection to our identity”.
Mr Umenzeakor said the event underscored the importance of sustaining the groundwork for the Blessed Iwene Tansi Chaplaincy, encouraging the faithful to stay committed to its growth.
“This historic celebration marks not just a religious milestone but a cultural affirmation for the Igbo people in South Australia, anchoring their faith, language, and heritage in their adopted home,” he said.
The community will hold a candlelight vigil at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Goodwood, on Wednesday for one of its members, Victor Ikechukwu Umeh, who was shot dead during a recent visit to Nigeria.
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First Nigerian Mass celebrated in SA (By Jenny Brinkworth, The Southern Cross)
