From Nigeria to the British Province: Intertwined destinies of Fr. Matthew Kwaghtaver CSSp and Fr. John McFadden CSSp

Fr. Matthew Kwaghtaver’s journey to the priesthood is marked by significant mentorship and familial ties. From 1998 to 2000, he interpreted for Fr. John McFadden, at St Vincent’s Catholic Church, Iorwar, Benue state, Nigeria. Fr McFadden was the District Superior of Makurdi District, living at the Holy Ghost House, Aliade, Nigeria. Fr. John’s leadership and influence were pivotal during these years. In 2000, before leaving Nigeria, to take over as the Provincial Superior of the British Province. Fr. John admitted Fr. Matthew into the Spiritans Postulate, Yola, Adamawa state, Nigeria, setting him on the path to the priesthood.

Moreover, Fr. Matthew’s connection to the Spiritan community was further deepened by his father’s role. His father served as a chef to the Holy Ghost House in Aliade from 1994 to 2009, providing a familial link to the Spiritans’ daily life and work. This environment played a crucial role in shaping Fr. Matthew’s spiritual journey.

However, in the provincial house, alongside Fr. John as Superior, Bro. John Holmes C.S.Sp., served as the community bursar, ensuring the administrative and financial stability of the community. Their leadership created a nurturing environment for spiritual growth and mission work for the young Matthew.

Graciously, Fr. Matthew’s dedication to his vocation culminated in his ordination on July 2, 2011 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral, Makurdi, Nigeria. This milestone marked his official entry into the priesthood and the congregation of the Holy Spirit, the Spiritans, a testament to the mentorship and support he received within the Spiritan community, particularly from Fr. John McFadden.

Providentially, Fr. Matthew and Fr. John McFadden now work together as fellow missionaries in the British province. They are both members of the editorial board of the Missionwide magazine, which focuses on the Spiritan missionaries’ enterprise in the United Kingdom and beyond. Their continued collaboration as co-missionaries highlights the enduring bond forged through their shared journey. This narrative underscores the role of mentorship, community support, and familial ties in shaping a Spiritan priest’s path, illustrating how their intertwined destinies continue to unfold as a product of fate.