Chris Orajiaka, a Nigerian man who gave up a successful business and two university degrees to pursue a religious calling, has been ordained as a Catholic priest and celebrated his first Mass in Lagos State.
Rev. Fr. Orajiaka’s journey to the priesthood was marked by significant personal sacrifice. He reportedly walked away from a thriving company valued in the millions of naira, as well as two academic degrees, in order to follow his spiritual path and enter the seminary.
His first Mass was held at the Catholic Church of Divine Mercy in Lekki, Lagos, and marked the beginning of his life of service in the priesthood.
During the emotional ceremony, he presented the maniturgium a sacred linen cloth used to wipe the anointing oil from a newly ordained priest’s hands to his mother.
This deeply symbolic gesture is a cherished Catholic tradition, representing a mother’s role in nurturing her son’s vocation.
A heartwarming video from the event was shared on TikTok by his sister, via her account @lildainty0.
In the video, she expressed joy at reuniting with her brother after several years, proudly celebrating his ordination.
“I get to hug my brother after how many years. My brother is now a priest. The congratulations should come in order. Because I am now nwanne Fada,” she said, using an Igbo expression meaning “priest’s sibling.”
The video quickly gained traction on social media, drawing admiration and praise from viewers across Nigeria. Many lauded Rev. Fr. Orajiaka’s unwavering faith and the powerful testament his story offers to the strength of religious conviction.
By Sunny A. David
Congratulations
I hope he will be able to withstand the temptations associated within and outside the church. May God guide and protect him IJN