Francis is an evolving scholar who recently obtained his PhD from the University of Divinity (2019). Currently, he lectures in New Testament with Yarra Theological Union.
In 2001, Francis graduated from St Augustine’s Major Seminary, Jos, Nigeria, having obtained a Bachelor of Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Urban University, Rome. His passion for scriptures urged him to further his studies at the University of Divinity, Australia, thus obtaining a Graduate Diploma in Biblical Studies in 2014. Thereafter, having been encouraged by the scholarly and friendly atmosphere of the University of Divinity, Francis enrolled in a PhD program from which he graduated in 2019, with the thesis: “Overcoming Resistance: The Holy Spirit as Legitimator of Mission in Luke-Acts”.
His research interest centres on the life/mission of the early followers of Jesus and the role of the Holy Spirit in this early community, especially as reflected in the Gospels and Acts; particularly how the evangelists have used the authority of the Holy Spirit to address different aspects of the community’s life and challenges.
Francis teaches the New Testament at YTU: the Gospel according to Mark, and Entering the World of the New Testament (which he currently co-teaches).
Francis is also the Parish Priest of St Michael’s Traralgon, Victoria, and the chaplain to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of the Diocese of Sale, Victoria.
University Appointments
- Lecturer
Yarra Theological Union
Teaching disciplines
New Testament; Biblical StudiesResearch areas
Recent Publications
All publicationsExternal Affiliations
- Centre for Gospels and Acts Research (Member)
- Australian Catholic Biblical Association (Member)