The 2024 Chrism Mass of the Bamenda Archdiocese was a remarkable success with an unusual achievement through the fundraising for the Cathedraticum. The Archbishop of Bamenda, His Grace Andrew Nkea Fuanya, expressed his gratitude to the Christian community for their overwhelming support, which resulted in a collection of over 120 million for the Cathedral refurbishment project. According to the Archbishop, this significant sum is the largest ever realized in Africa for such a purpose, underscoring the generosity, commitment and hardworking nature of the faithful in the Archdiocese of Bamenda despite the negatives from the ongoing armed conflict.
Front view of the new Cathedral after refurbishment
In his address, Archbishop Nkea Fuanya highlighted the importance of the Cathedraticum collection in supporting the refurbishment of the St. Joseph Metropolitan Cathedral, a historic edifice built over 50 years ago. The funds raised will contribute to the maintenance and enhancement of this iconic religious landmark, ensuring its continued significance within the community.
The Chrism Mass is an annual ceremony where sacramental oils are blessed for use in the upcoming year, symbolizing the spiritual renewal and empowerment of the faithful. This year's event also saw the establishment of four new parishes and two deaneries, further expanding the administrative reach of the cathedral and strengthening its presence in the Archdiocese.
Archbishop Nkea Fuanya called on the priests of the Archdiocese to focus on meeting the spiritual needs of the Christian community and to avoid exploiting or burdening them. Emphasizing the importance of compassion and service, he urged clergy members to prioritize their pastoral duties and provide guidance and support to those in need.
As the Archdiocese continues to navigate challenges posed by ongoing conflicts, Archbishop Nkea Fuanya's message of unity, generosity, and faith serves as a signal of hope and resilience for all members of the Bamenda community.
In his address, Archbishop Nkea Fuanya highlighted the importance of the Cathedraticum collection in supporting the refurbishment of the St. Joseph Metropolitan Cathedral, a historic edifice built over 50 years ago. The funds raised will contribute to the maintenance and enhancement of this iconic religious landmark, ensuring its continued significance within the community.
Nfor Cajetan, Parish Pastoral Councik chairperson for St. John the Baptist Parish, lauded the efforts of his parishioners, noting that their collective contribution of over seven million was an indication to their hard work and collaborative spirit. The success of individual parishes in raising funds for the Cathedraticum reflects the unity and dedication of the Bamenda Christian community in supporting their shared religious heritage.
The present view of the Cathedral
The Chrism Mass is an annual ceremony where sacramental oils are blessed for use in the upcoming year, symbolizing the spiritual renewal and empowerment of the faithful. This year's event also saw the establishment of four new parishes and two deaneries, further expanding the administrative reach of the cathedral and strengthening its presence in the Archdiocese.
Archbishop Nkea Fuanya called on the priests of the Archdiocese to focus on meeting the spiritual needs of the Christian community and to avoid exploiting or burdening them. Emphasizing the importance of compassion and service, he urged clergy members to prioritize their pastoral duties and provide guidance and support to those in need.
As the Archdiocese continues to navigate challenges posed by ongoing conflicts, Archbishop Nkea Fuanya's message of unity, generosity, and faith serves as a signal of hope and resilience for all members of the Bamenda community.
By Bakah Derick
Email:debakah2004@yahoo.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77