Photo Credit: Streams of Joy Houston (Google Map). Retrieved on July 17, 2025.
I have a Nigerian bathing sponge and an Oyibo (Western) sponge from HEB. Again, I have a Nigerian and an American towel. I also have a pair of Nigerian shoes and another pair of American shoes. A set of Nigerian Ankara and laces and American suits and casuals; each set of my deodorant has a Nigerian and American counterpart. My pantry is laden with dried Nigerian foodstuffs ranging from Okporoko (stockfish) to Azuokpoo (dry catfish), to Okpa (steamed ground Bambara nuts), crayfish, egusi, ogbono, and ukwa (breadfruit), at the same time, my fridge has all the fresh versions of American produce: broccoli, sweet peppers, asparagus, green peas, kale, spinach, etc. I have each pair to help me experience both Whiteness and Blackness. Could this be what DuBois called “Double consciousness”?
I always want to taste both worlds, but preferably more of Nigeria to keep me in touch with my roots. Story of my diasporic life! As you have already noticed, I must add Igbo, my native African language, to my writings. This constant quest to connect to my authenticity has led me to attend many events here in Houston, searching for my community. These places include clubhouses, bars, birthday parties, weddings, and churches. My findings have led me to the conclusion that the African church is the next best thing to home! If you ever find yourself in a new country, quickly locate a church. I assure you yet again, it is closest to that ‘Africa’ you have been pining for.
Here are a few churches with a strong Nigerian/African presence that I have been to:
- St. James’ Episcopal Church, Third Ward, Houston, Texas. There is always an event after church services at this Anglican church. The church kitchen provides a variety of African dishes to the church members after services. You might find a long-distance relative here! There are lots of African fathers here.
- St Mary of the Purification Catholic Church: This is a Catholic church of African descent. There are lots of Nigerian mothers here. You might find a long-lost aunt here, who knows? Or make a new one!
- Dominion Chapel Houston is not only African-studded but also a youth church where almost every member is a leader. They are homey, and there is a proper balance of African countries, too.
- Streams of Joy Houston is a Nigerian Christian denomination organization representing several other African denominations. Their choir is good! With a splice of Western and African gospel music, they keep you hooked and reminiscing about home. Their choir, led by Yeka, clearly stands out.
These few African-dominated churches I have listed prove that whether you are Catholic, Anglican, or protestant Christian, there is a place for you. And if you love to have the best of both worlds like me, you can try a little here and there occasionally until you finally decide where you wish to be your second home (if you want). However, Rice Graduate Christian Fellowship also offers you a close-knit community of international students—another great community to belong to.
About the author:
Osinachi Okafor was born in Aba, Abia State. She hails from Ebenator village, Azigbo town in Nnewi LGA of Anambra State, Nigeria. She is a current Ph.D student in Art History. She got her B.A in Fine and Applied Art at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria in 2017. Read more.
Further Reading:
Life As a Nigerian/African Christian International Student in Houston I