Family, Faith & Community

The Nigerian-Igbo Catholic Community of Atlanta (NICCA) began in the early 1990s following a visit from Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ede, which inspired local Igbo immigrants to integrate their native language and cultural traditions into their worship. Originally established as a prayer ministry, the group evolved with the support of the Archdiocese of Atlanta to foster communal fellowship and pass on the Igbo language and legacy to younger generations. Key milestones in its history include the 1999 hosting of Cardinal Francis Arinze and the ordination of the first Nigerian priest in the archdiocese, Fr. Michael Onyekuru.

The community has been privileged to have as its chaplain the Late Rev. Fr. Dr. John Paul Ezeonyido, who served as its spiritual leader from his ordination in 2003 until his untimely earthly departure on Dec 25th, 2020. Late Fr. John Paul energetically infused and instituted NICCA with many initiatives that contributed immensely to the growth of the community.

NICCA is also indebted to Rev Fr. Dr. Paschal Amagba CMF, who ably took up the mantle of serving as its spiritual leader after the death of Fr. J.P, and served until his posting out of the archdiocese of Atlanta in 2024.

NICCA is currently honored to have as its Chaplain The Rev. Fr. Felix Nzeadi, who has been serving as the community’s spiritual leader since his appointment in 2025.

NICCA hosts monthly Igbo-language masses at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and a prominent and widely attended annual New Year’s mass. The community remains active through annual retreats, bazaars, and special services honoring Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi. Through the dedicated efforts of its clergy and members, the organization continues to grow with the long-term goal of eventually establishing its own parish.