21/12/2025
HISTORY AND OVERVIEW OF THE CHURCH OF ASSUMPTION QUASI-PARISH, WING 4, GOVERNMENT TECHNICAL COLLEGE LAYOUT, IKOT EFFANGA MKPA, CALABAR.
Introduction
The Church of Assumption Quasi-Parish, located within Wing 4 of the Government Technical College Layout, Ikot Effanga Mkpa, Calabar, Cross River State, is a thriving Church of Catholic faithful dedicated to worship, evangelization, and service. This Church’s journey reflects divine guidance, steadfast leadership, and vibrant faith, exemplified by the visionary efforts of Rev. Fr. John Leo Udoh, whose evangelistic zeal and perseverance successfully established this spiritual haven.
Establishment and Growth
The inception of the Church of Assumption traces back to August 2019, driven by Rev. Fr. John Leo Udoh’s pastoral concern for Catholics in the area. His initial recognition of the need was during visits in May 2016 to Bro. Emmanuel Ugbong’s family, where he observed the significant distance from the nearest Catholic church and the rapidly growing Catholic population in the vicinity.
Following continued prayer and planning, the Mass Centre was formally inaugurated on August 25, 2019. The first Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. John Leo Udoh in Brother Emmanuel Ugbong’s sitting room, with 61 faithful presents. This modest beginning marked the start of an inspiring journey of faith, Church building, and spiritual growth.
Through dedication and the support of the faithful, the Church experienced exponential growth. The proximity of the worship site contributed to increased attendance, which now exceeds 200 worshippers. Recognizing the need for a permanent structure, the Church successfully acquired land for future development, including a church building and a priest’s rectory.
Elevation to Quasi-Parish
On August 15, 2024, the Church received a significant ecclesiastical milestone when His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Ekuwem, Archbishop of Calabar, elevated the Mass Centre to the status of a Quasi-Parish. This recognition signifies the Church’s spiritual maturity, organizational stability, and importance within the archdiocese, paving the way for further growth and development.
Sacraments and Spiritual Activities
From its inception, the Church has actively participated in the Sacraments, fostering spiritual growth:
• First Baptism: November 9, 2019
• First Dedication of a Baby: November 10, 2019
• Total Baptisms: 31
• First Holy Communion: 49
• Dedications: 11
• Confirmation- 26
• Holy Matrimony: 1 couple
The Church regularly holds catechism classes, Eucharistic celebrations, and other pious activities, providing avenues for faith formation, Church engagement, and spiritual renewal.
Leadership and Priestly Service
The spiritual leadership has been instrumental in guiding the Church’s growth:
• Very Rev. Fr. John Leo Udoh (August 2019 – August 2024)
• Rev. Fr. Joseph Itu - Assistant (2023)
• Rev. Fr. Andrew Oham- Assistant (2024)
• Fr. Ignatius Sam (appointed substitute priest from August 2024)
• Fr. Charles Lwanga Esirah (March – July 2025)
• Very Rev. Fr. Paul Etene (current Parish Priest from July 1, 2025)
Active Organizations and Societies
The Church’s vibrant life is further enriched by active participation in various organizations:
• Catholic Men Organization (CMO)
• Catholic Women Organization (CWO)
• Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON)
• Legion of Mary
• Mary League
• Choir
• Lay Readers
• Mass Servers
• Ministers of Hospitality
These groups foster Church spirit, faith development, and service to both the church and society.
Pioneer Leadership of Churches’ Associations and Organizations
To ensure effective administration and vibrant Church life, the following pioneer leaders were at the helm of the church’s associations and organizations:
Pastoral Council
• Bro. Christopher Edet (KSM) – Vice Chairman
• Lady Sarah Otonkue – Secretary (LSJI)
• Sister Mary Ugbong – Vice Chairman of Finance
Parish Catchiest
• Mr. George Offiong
Catholic Men Organization (CMO)
• Mr. Patrick Oko – President
• Sir Emmanuel Otonkue (KSJI) – Secretary
Catholic Women Organization (CWO)
• Mrs. Lilian Odimegwu – President
• Lady Sarah Otonkue (LSJI) – Secretary
Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON)
• Mr. Ogar Ojugbo – President
• Mr. Aristotle Agim – Secretary
These pioneer leaders laid the foundation for the vibrant organizational life of the Church, guiding activities, fostering unity, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the parish’s various groups.
Historic Milestones and Achievements
A notable milestone was the historic visit of the Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Christopher Nasari, on March 17, 2024—the first bishop to visit the Church. This visit was a source of inspiration and encouragement, culminating in the elevation of the Church to a Quasi-Parish later that year.
Additional achievements include:
• Acquisition of land for a permanent church building
• Construction of a temporary worship canopy
• Acquisition of land for a priest’s rectory
• Annual celebrations: Feast Day, Harvest, and Talent celebration
Expressions of Gratitude
The Church expresses heartfelt appreciation to God, Rev. Fr. John Leo Udoh, all assisting priests, and the archdiocese, especially His Grace Most Rev Dr Joseph Ekuwem, for their unwavering support. Special thanks are extended to the auxiliary bishop Most Rev. Dr. Christopher Naseri for his encouragement and to all benefactors who have contributed to the growth and sustenance of this Church.
Conclusion
The Church of Assumption Quasi-Parish stands today as a beacon of faith, evangelization, and Community service in Wing 4, Government Technical College Layout, Ikot Effanga Mkpa, Calabar. Its journey from humble beginnings to a recognized Quasi-Parish exemplifies divine guidance and the collective efforts of faithful leadership. The Church remains committed to its evangelical mission, trusting in God’s continued grace for future growth and spiritual prosperity.
Sign:
Bro. Christopher Edet- V.P Pastoral Council
Lady Sarah Otonkue (LSJI)- Secretary Pastoral Council
Mrs. Mary Ugbong- VP. Finance council.
