Fr. Kingsley Nwoko

Originally from Ahiara, Nigeria, he grew up a devout Catholic. One of his most profound memories of childhood is the block Rosary.

“In the Eastern part of Nigeria, which is predominately Catholic, every enclave has a block Rosary at the end of almost each street for moral instructions, prayers and catechism classes,” he explained. “We had one located at the entrance to my father’s compound. I was always there at 4 p.m. every day with my siblings to start the Rosary, and I always led the prayers.”

That’s where he believes God called him to be a priest. Throughout his adolescence, he mentored other children, and he joined the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Nigeria after high school. He earned a bachelor of philosophy from the Claretian Institute of Philosophy, completed his canonical novitiate year and professed temporary vows with the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts, and went on to earn his bachelor of theology at Seat of Wisdom Major Seminary.

Nwoko went on to Rome, studying at the Pontifical Institute of John Paul II for marriage and family in Vatican City.  He came to Houston from Virginia Commonwealth University where he was studying toward a Ph.D. Through his work with the Archdiocese, he supports and provides resources to married couples with his enrichment series called “Heart to Heart,” and a discernment series called “Discovering Love with Clarity,” for engaged and dating couples.

“I am grateful to God for His faithfulness and thank all those who have been instrument of support in my journey to priesthood,” he said.

Ordained at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on June 1, 2019.

Missionaries of Love