THE SPIRITANS CONTRIBUTIONS TO PASTORAL MINISTRY IN IGBOLAND, 1885-1970

Abstract

The story of Catholicsm among the Igbo of south-eastern Nigeria began with the Spiritans (Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers) in 1885, and was identified with them for the next eighty-five years until their forceful eviction and repatriation by the Federal Government of Nigeria in January 1970. With a teaming worshiping community in virtually all towns and villages of Igboland, the region has turned out to be a hub of Catholic clergy and Religious, diocesan and missionaries alike. The picture being painted of the spread of Catholicism here is a successful one. In such a successful story, the place of pastoral ministry cannot be wished away. Using the analytical method, this paper reflects on the contributions of the Spiritans to the Pastoral plans and ministry employed in Catholic evangelism in Igboland between 1900 and 1970. By these contributions, the Spiritans played an important role towards the transformation of Nigerian society. The deductions of the assessment are presented in thematic and narrative methods.