The Cathedral of Santa Maria Asunta of Owerri

Owerri · State of Imo · Nigeria · Heart of Catholicism igbo

The Cathedral of Santa María Asunta of Owerri, capital of the State of Imo, is one of the most active cathedrals in Nigeria. Located in the heart of the igbo territory, it is the center of one of the most dynamic Catholic communities in Africa.

Owerri: capital of Igbo Catholicism

Owerri is the capital of the State of Imo, one of the most Catholic states in Nigeria. The archdiocese of Owerri is one of the largest and most active in the country, with hundreds of parishes, thousands of prayer groups and a tradition of theological formation that has produced bishops, priests and laity of prestige.

The cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, is the liturgical center of this vast community. The Assumption - the belief that Mary was taken to heaven in body and soul - is one of the most celebrated Marian parties in Nigeria: August 15 is a festive day in many southern states.

Marian devotion in Oerri

In the archdiocese of Owerri, Marian devotion is expressed in many ways: co-fradies of the Rosary, Marian prayer groups, pilgrimages to local sanctuaries, monthly Marian celebrations. The Virgin Mary is invoked in every moment of life: birth, marriage, sickness, death. The faithful of Owerri say, "If you have a problem, tell Mary. She will tell Jesus."