Love of Family and Parishioners

“I have the power to take bread and wine, and through transubstantiation, give Jesus to others. I hear people’s deepest concerns in the confessional and offer God’s mercy. No other vocational calling offers such mystery,” says Nigerian native Father Aloysius Okpala in describing the beauty of priestly ministry.
 
The eldest of five siblings that includes four boys and a girl, Father Aloysius heard God’s call for priestly formation during childhood. Despite the emphasis on continuing the family legacy that is important to Nigerians, he had complete support from his family to pursue ministry.

“My family never objected to my call to the priesthood. My father offered much loving encouragement throughout my formation,” said Father Aloysius.

That loving support was consequently returned to his father through God’s mercy when Father Aloysius celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time in hearing his father’s confession. “It was a beautiful, humbling experience,” he remarks.

Priesthood was attractive because of the respect clerics receive in Nigeria. “We are often consulted to offer insights concerning conflicts and look after the well-being of communities,” he reflects.

“The brotherhood that priests share is so special. Though we are not a biological family, Nigerian priests have a loving fraternity of support. There is communion amongst clerics, and we all desire the well-being and holiness of others,” adds Father Aloysius.

The love and well-being of the parishioners of All Saints Parish in Alpena is now his pastoral focus. “I am here to journey with you while working to serve God and his people.”

“My parishioners have been so hospitable. They welcome me into their families and extend invitations for meals. I am having a great experience,” he adds.

Father Aloysius remembers the invitation to come to America with this being his first experience: “In conversation with my bishop, I was presented the opportunity and responded in affirming my obedience to him, and to minister wherever he instructs.”

Ordained by Most Reverend Doctor Oliver Dashe Deome on July 9, 2013, for the Diocese of Maiduguri, Father Aloysius wants the Diocese of Gaylord to know of his love and that we share in a beautiful communal journey: building the Kingdom of God.

When he is not providing for his parishioners, Father Aloysius enjoys reading, watching movies and visiting with family and friends. He enjoys reading about Catholicism and learning more about his favorite saint, Augustine of Hippo.

St. Augustine articulated long ago: “Our hearts are restless until they are filled with God’s love.”

“I desire God’s love to be part of all the faithful, and it is my ministry that offers such opportunities,” says Father Aloysius.

Father Aloysius received a special Christmas gift in 2023 with the birth of his first niece, Sophia Okpala. While he has not yet seen her, the proud uncle looks forward to the opportunity.

May God bless Father Aloysius and his ministerial efforts to the diocesan faithful and parishioners of All Saints Parish.