by Gordon Nary
Gordon: Where were you born and tell me something about your childhood.
Father Dankasa: I was born in Nigeria as the fifth of seven children and grew up in a faith-filled home that nurtured my spiritual life. I was ordained a Catholic priest on July 17, 2004, for the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan in Nigeria, marking the beginning of my commitment to serving the Church.
I come from Northern Nigeria, a region with a Muslim majority. As a child, I grew up in Kaduna, a metropolitan city where Christians and Muslims lived in harmony. Many of my close friends were from both faith traditions, and our coexistence was marked by mutual respect and friendship. Sadly, over time, increasing religious tensions and crises have strained these once-peaceful relationships.
Gordon: What is one of your favorite memories of your childhood?
Father Dankasa: One of my favorite childhood memories is the strong friendships I built across different religious backgrounds. As children, we played together, ate together, and trusted one another without division. I vividly remember the joy of sharing food with our Muslim neighbors on Christmas Day, and in return, they would bring food to our home during their religious celebrations. Those were beautiful moments of unity and mutual respect. Sadly, this sense of harmony has faded over time, replaced by mutual suspicion and division.
Gordon: Please list the colleges that you attended and the degrees that you earned at each school.
Father Dankasa: I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome and a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from the University of Jos in Nigeria. I then pursued a Master’s degree in Mass Communications from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, USA, and later obtained a Ph.D. in Information Science from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas, USA.
Gordon: When you received your vocation, with whom did you first discuss it and what was their advice?
Father Dankasa: As an altar server, I was mentored by our parish priest, and he was the first person I told about my desire to become a priest. He encouraged me to pursue it and advised me to enroll in the minor seminary since I was still in the early years of my secondary (high) school at the time.
I also shared my vocation with my parents. They asked if I was certain about my decision, and when I affirmed it, they expressed some reservations. My mother, in particular, asked how many years it would take to become a priest. When I told her that after secondary school, I would need an additional nine years in the seminary, she cynically remarked that she would probably be dead by then—it seemed like such a long journey. My father, however, responded with confidence, saying, “We will live to see it.” I found that exchange amusing.
Yet, in an unexpected twist of life, it was my mother who lived to see me ordained. My father passed away while I was in my second year of major seminary.
Gordon: Where did you attend seminary, what was your favorite course, and why was it your favorite?
Father Dankasa: I began my seminary formation with a spiritual year at SS Peter and Paul Seminary in Eruku, Kwara State, Nigeria, which focused on a one-year propaedeutic (spiritual formation) program. I then pursued Philosophy at St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria, which is affiliated with the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome. For Theology, I studied at St. Augustine Major Seminary in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, affiliated with the University of Jos.
I wouldn’t say I had a single favorite course, as each subject played a vital role in shaping my priestly formation. However, my spiritual year experience was particularly profound and meaningful. It became the bedrock that strengthened my desire to continue my formation. The seminary’s remote location – deep in the woods, far from the distractions of the city – offered a peaceful and reflective environment. It was there that I truly learned to embrace silence, trust in God, and allow Him to take control of my journey.
Gordon: Tell us about your ministry in Kafanchan diocese, Nigeria
Father Dankasa: After my ordination, I served in various capacities within the Diocese of Kafanchan, Nigeria, including Diocesan Director of Communications, Diocesan Secretary, Diocesan Chancellor, and Pastor.
As Diocesan Chancellor and Secretary, I managed the diocesan archives, handled official correspondence, and coordinated the diocesan curia. My role involved facilitating organizational management and implementing policies to ensure effective information management within the diocese.
As Director of Communications, I oversaw the production and publication of the diocesan newspaper, drafted official news releases, and managed media relations on behalf of the diocese.
In addition to these administrative roles, I also served in pastoral ministry – first as a Parochial Vicar and later as a Pastor – where I was actively involved in the spiritual care, administration, and leadership of a parish community.
Gordon: Tell us about your journey to the United States and your ministry in the Diocese of Dallas?
Father Dankasa: In 2008, my bishop sent me to the United States for further studies. I first arrived in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where I pursued a Master’s degree in Mass Communication at St. Cloud State University. After completing my program, my bishop granted me permission to remain in the U.S. for a period of pastoral ministry experience.
In 2010, I moved to the Diocese of Dallas, where I have served in multiple parishes as a Parochial Vicar. Currently, I am privileged to serve as the Pastor of Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church in Irving, Texas.
During my time in Dallas, I have embraced my new community while remaining deeply connected to my Nigerian heritage. My ministry here is centered on spiritual growth, community-building, and evangelization, ensuring that parishioners from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and spiritually nourished.
Gordon: You are also a Columnist with The Texas Catholic, What are some of the topics that you have addressed?
Father Dankasa: In my columns for The Texas Catholic, I explore various aspects of spiritual growth, faith, and personal reflection. Some of the key topics I address include:
Guidance for Family Spiritual Leadership – I offer advice to parents on nurturing their families spiritually, emphasizing practical ways such as praying together, reading Scripture, and serving as role models for their children.
Balancing Life and Faith – I reflect on the challenge of maintaining harmony between personal well-being and spiritual responsibilities, highlighting the importance of rest, reflection, and rejuvenation for sustaining long-term ministry and personal growth.
Faith, Spirituality, and Personal Development – My writings aim to inspire readers to deepen their faith, engage in self-reflection, and actively participate in their spiritual communities.
Beyond my work as a columnist, I am also deeply engaged in academic and scholarly research. I have published three books and numerous scholarly papers and articles in reputable journals. My academic research focuses on the intersection of communication, technology, and religion, particularly within the context of the Catholic Church. I explore how modern media and digital technologies can be effectively utilized for evangelization and religious education, helping to bridge the gap between faith and the digital world.
Gordon: Are there any personal interests you want to share?
Father Dankasa: In my personal time, I enjoy listening to music, especially classical country music. I also love watching movies, particularly adventure films, dramas based on true-life stories, and comedies. Additionally, I have a great passion for sports, with soccer and basketball being my favorites.
Gordon: Thank you for an exceptional Interview.