Chi Igboanusi
Theology IV
Chi Igboanusi is the sixth son and the youngest of thirteen children. He was born and raised in a strong catholic family, in Imo State, Nigeria. Chi says that his call to the priesthood can always be traced back to his childhood, "for even as a child, I have always felt that inner call to the priesthood." He says that in his home parish he served as an altar boy, reader, Rosary Crusader and in Pro-life movements. He says he is deeply grateful to his parents who introduced him to and nurtured his faith.
Chi attended St Mary's seminary (high school), Umuowa, Nigeria, studied Philosophy at Seat of Wisdom Seminary in Nigeria, and graduated in 2000. He then moved to the United States where he continues to discern his call to the priesthood. He studied Communications at St. Norbert College, De Pere, Wisconsin and graduated in 2003. He then pursued graduate studies in Communications at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston. He says that it was while studying at Eastern Illinois, that he decided to respond to God's call to the diocesan priesthood and to begin studying for the Archdiocese of Omaha.
He is presently studying Theology at Mount Angel Seminary at St. Benedict, Oregon - a seminary unique in its cultural diversity and monastic tradition.
Chi says, "People always ask me how I ended up in Omaha or how I manage to be far away from home and friends. My answer is that it is a long story, but cutting it short, I can only say it is part of God's plan. It is not about me. It is all about God. Yes being far away from family and friends may be difficult sometimes, yet it is a way God teaches me how to 'let go' and trust in Him who is the author and controller of my life. What matters is that I am doing God's will. I am very happy doing what I have always dreamt of doing – being a missionary in another country.
Finally, the life and journey of a diocesan seminarian into the Catholic priesthood is not for everyone. It is a life dedicated to prayer, discipline and humility. It is a special gift from God. For those who are called to it, it is a very happy and fulfilling undertaking. If you are called, no matter how long it takes, God will always search and find you. If he comes knocking, please open your heart to Him. If you feel that the Lord may be calling you to the priesthood, I encourage you to take the first step by talking to our vocation director, and then go from there. Also get to know our seminarians and remember to pray."
Email: abachac@catholic.org
