Rev. Fr. James hails from Northern Nigeria, Africa. He grew up in a family of six brothers; three of these six brothers now live and work in different parts of the world while the other three are in Africa. Both of his parents still live in Northern Nigeria where Fr. James did his early studies until he proceeded to Rome, Italy, where he tried to play some professional soccer with a third division club side. While in Italy, thoughts of his altar serving days flashed back and he got convinced that his true calling was to serve the Lord as a priest. He joined the seminary and studied for the priesthood at the Pontifical University at the Vatican obtaining a Bachelor of Philosophy and Bachelor of Theology degrees. Upon completion of his seminary studies in Rome, with the benevolent spiritual guidance of Mons. Donald Bolen (now bishop of Saskatoon) who was at that time serving at the Vatican, he joined the Archdiocese of Regina and was sent by the late Archbishop Peter Mallon to do post-graduate studies at the Newman Theological College in Edmonton. Upon completion of this study, he was ordained a priest at the Holy Rosary Cathedral in Regina on 20th December, 2002.
As a priest, Fr. James is convinced that the admixture of Theology and pastoral ministry with the human services disciplines would help him serve parishioners better. This conviction led him to Capella University in Minnesota, USA where he obtained an M.Sc degree, (with distinction) specializing in Counselling Psychology. He then proceeded to the Graduate Theological in South Bend. Indiana, USA where he completed his PhD course work and doctoral dissertation in Pastoral Psychology. Fr. James is an active member of the American Counselling Association (ACA) and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). He serves on a couple of the Regina Archdiocesan Committees.
Before his posting to Swift Current as Pastor, Fr. James served at various times as deacon, priest and pastor in Regina, Estevan and in Gull Lake. Fr. James is an empathetic listener who does his ministry with great compassion. He loves people and likes to talk about world current affairs and sports. Fr. James comes to Swift Current with great enthusiasm to serve on the Altar and to minister the Word and Sacraments according to the heart of Jesus Christ who came to serve and not to be served (Matthew 20:28). Fr. James’ pastoral motto is “all things work together unto good for those who love and trust the Lord” (Romans 8:28).
Send Fr. James an email at frjowolagba@gmail.com