Originally from Nigeria in the western part of Africa, Joseph Akunaeziri was previously a member of the religious community known as the Shoenstatt Fathers. He obtained his Bachelors of Philosophy from Urban University in Rome and then left to further determine his vocation in New York. Joseph worked as a substance abuse counselor while he studied and obtained a Masters of Arts in Systematic Theology from St. Johns University. Through prayers and reflections, Joseph was able to ascertain that the Lord called him to serve the people of New York in the diocesan way of life. Joseph is now a member of the Class of 2019 and studying for the Archdiocese of New York.

“I have always known that the call to serve the Lord is there in me since childhood. I am so humbled that the Lord will make me an instrument to spread the gospel among his people. I live every day, thanking God for his great love and asking for his grace for the many days ahead".