The journey that led Fr. Obi to the priesthood began in 1999, during a time of deep searching for life’s true meaning. In that search, he encountered Jesus, the source of true, enduring, and lasting joy. Walking with Christ — not in a superficial or easy way, but in the daily companionship of faith — he discovered the answers to the questions that shaped his path. In Jesus, he found his identity, his purpose, and the conviction that authentic life is found in living for others.

 

From early on, Fr. Obi felt called to serve humanity by bringing the transforming newness of the Gospel into every environment — renewing relationships, institutions, and structures, and helping to build a more just world rooted in solidarity and the common good. He often said that he desired to find his life by giving it away in service to others. This, he believes, is the heart of his priestly vocation.

 

After studying philosophy and theology in Nigeria, Fr. Obi came to the Diocese of Nelson in 2012. His formation continued at St. Joseph Seminary in Edmonton, where he discovered the profound beauty of friendship with Jesus. Through this friendship, he came to a deeper awareness of the dignity of every human person — each one wonderfully made in the image of God.

​

Following seminary, he completed a Clinical Pastoral Education program in Vancouver, serving at St. Paul’s Hospital and in care homes. He was ordained to the priesthood in 2015 at Immaculate Conception Church in Kelowna. Since ordination, Fr. Obi has served the Church in many parishes and ministries, including:

1. Associate Pastor, St. Pius X Church (Kelowna) and St. Edward’s Church (Lake Country) 2. Pastor, Holy Cross Church (Creston)

3. Pastor, Catholic Parishes of Penticton

4. Pastor, St. Pius X Church (Kelowna) and St. Edward’s Church (Lake Country)

5. Bishop’s Liaison, Renewal Ministry

6. Former Editor, Mountain Star Magazine

7. Former Chaplain, University of British Columbia – Okanagan

8. Chaplain, Rachel’s Vineyard Ministry

9. Member, Vocation Committee

10.Director, Office of Evangelization and Missionary Discipleship

 

Over the past year, Fr. Obi has travelled throughout the diocese offering retreats, workshops, and conferences. This ministry allowed him to visit our parish during the Advent Mission — an encounter many parishioners remember with gratitude. He often reminds us that we are fellow disciples and companions on the journey, walking together toward God with the desire to become saints and to bring Christ’s love to a world in need. His passion for evangelization echoes the Cursillo spirit: to be a friend, to make a friend, and to bring that friend to Christ.

​

 

He enjoys reading, playing guitar, music, and both playing and coaching soccer. He hopes to take up skiing in the near future. Above all, he expresses deep appreciation for the faith, generosity, and witness of the parishioners of Kimberley. He is humbled and grateful to journey with us and to work together in accomplishing God’s purposes in the ways the Holy Spirit will inspire.