By Paschal Norbert

KUMBA, JANUARY 16, 2025 (CISA) – The Catholic Bishops of Cameroon have renewed their call for sincere dialogue, peace, and collective responsibility in addressing the country’s socio-political and economic challenges, following the conclusion of their 49th Annual Seminar held from 3 to 10 January 2026 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Pastoral Centre in the Diocese of Kumba.

Meeting for one week under the theme “Communion and Collegiality,” the Bishops described the plenary as a moment of fraternal listening, shared reflection and collective evaluation of the life and mission of the Church in Cameroon. The seminar was convened under the leadership of Most Rev. Andrew Nkea Fuanya, Archbishop of Bamenda and President of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC).

The seminar officially opened with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration on the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Fiango–Kumba. The Mass was presided over by the host Rt. Rev. Agapitus Nfon, Bishop of Kumba, and drew the participation of civil, administrative and traditional authorities, clergy, consecrated persons and lay faithful. Among those present were the Governor of the South-West Region, Bernard Okalia Bilai, the Senior Divisional Officer for Meme Division, and the Kumba City Mayor.

In his address during the opening ceremony, the President of the NECC expressed gratitude to the civil authorities for their presence and words of encouragement, noting that their support was extended not only to the Catholic Diocese of Kumba but to the entire Provincial Church.

He thanked God for the growth and pastoral achievements of the Diocese of Kumba in just a decade of existence, achieved despite a context marked by violence and insecurity. He further commended Bishop Agapitus Nfon, clergy and lay faithful for what he described as “extraordinary achievements” realized without external funding.

Reflecting on national affairs, Archbishop Nkea revisited the year 2025, particularly the presidential election, and praised the Magisterium of the Bishops of Cameroon for their interventions on socio-economic and political matters. He reiterated the mission of the Episcopal Conference and recalled the responsibility of lay faithful and all citizens in contributing responsibly to the administration of state affairs.

Against the backdrop of post-election insecurity, fear and uncertainty affecting large segments of the population, the Bishops called for sincere and inclusive dialogue as the path to lasting peace. They urged relevant authorities to address pressing concerns such as the high cost of living, social injustice and endemic corruption, stressing that concerted action is required for the good of the entire nation.

The Bishops reminded the faithful that prayer remains central to peace-building efforts, particularly in the South-West and North-West Regions. They emphasized that prayer, coupled with dialogue and responsible action, is essential for ending the ongoing crisis and restoring hope and stability.

Before the start of their deliberations, the Bishops participated in a spiritual recollection led by Bishop Emmanuel Dassi Youfang of Bafia at St Anthony of Padua Parish, Kumba–Mbeng. The moment of reflection, marked by adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and the celebration of the Eucharist, led to an examination of conscience on the challenges to communion and collegiality within the Church. The Bishops noted that discussions held in an atmosphere of fraternity and conviviality reinforced their conviction that unity and collaborative action are indispensable in addressing national issues, while respecting the pastoral responsibility of each local Church.

During their stay in Kumba, the Bishops also held a closed-door working session with the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt. In addition, they observed a day of relaxation at St John the Evangelist Parish, Kumba Town, where they concelebrated Mass presided over by Archbishop Andrew Nkea, enjoyed cultural performances prepared by parish groups, and shared a fraternal agape meal.

At the close of the seminar, the Bishops expressed gratitude to Bishop Agapitus Nfon, his collaborators, priests, consecrated persons and lay faithful for the warm hospitality and efficient organization of the seminar at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Pastoral Centre. Appreciation was also extended to administrative authorities, security services, journalists and other communicators for their support and professionalism.

Deeply concerned about ongoing social unrest and uncertainty, the Bishops reaffirmed their commitment to the promotion of the common good, dialogue, unity and respect for the dignity of every human person. They announced that the 50th Annual Seminar of the Bishops of Cameroon will be held in the Archdiocese of Douala in January 2027.