Rev. Fr. Cyprian Tatah Ferdzefer’s journey from Kumbo-Nso in the North West Region of Cameroon to his new role as administrator for Our Lady of the Eucharist Parish in Lincoln highlights his commitment to faith and service in the Catholic Church. As he prepares for this new chapter, effective October 24, 2024, Fr. Ferdzefer brings with him a wealth of experience and dedication to pastoral care that has defined his ministry for three decades.
Born on January 19, 1967, in Roberta-Kikaikom, Nso, Fr. Ferdzefer grew up in a large family, the son of Papa Chin Francis Tata (of blessed memory) and Mama Crescentia Yegwa. He was raised alongside eight siblings: five brothers and three sisters; two of whom have since passed away. His formative education began at St. Paul’s Catholic Primary School in Kikaikom, followed by his spiritual journey at Bishop Rogan College, a minor seminary in Buea, where he obtained his GCE “O” and “A” Level Certificates.
In 1987, he was admitted to St. Thomas Aquinas’ Major Seminary in Bambui, where he pursued his theological studies. After his ordination to the diaconate in 1992, he was ordained a priest on April 16, 1993, by Mgr. Cornelius Fontem Esau, the Archbishop Emeritus of Bamenda Archdiocese. Fr. Ferdzefer has since dedicated his life to serving his community in numerous capacities, including as curate in Tabenken Parish and secretary to the Bishop of Kumbo.
His leadership continued as parish priest of St. Mathias Mulumba’s Parish in Ako and later as rector of Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, where he also recently celebrated 30 years of priesthood. In this role, he showcased his cultural heritage by doing justice to the Nso Dance, a reminder of his roots.
Fr. Ferdzefer's academic qualifications include degrees in Philosophy and Theology from St. Thomas Aquinas’ Major Seminary and a Licentiate in Biblical Theology from the Pontifical Urban University in Rome. His contributions to the Diocese of Kumbo include organizing two successful diocesan synods and serving as Catholic Education Secretary and parish priest of Meluf. His passion for education is matched by his commitment to building strong Christian communities, encouraging congregants to harness their individual gifts for the collective good.
In 2021, Fr. Ferdzefer was called as a Fidei Donum priest, a title denoting a “gift of faith,” to serve the Diocese of St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands. There, he has continued to demonstrate his dedication to pastoral care, most recently serving as pastor of St. Patrick Catholic Church since June 15, 2022. His work in the Caribbean has further honed his pastoral skills, enabling him to adapt to the unique cultural contexts of island life.
Now, as he transitions to his new role in Lincoln, which encompasses St. Mary of Lourdes Church in Lincoln, St. Leo the Great Church in Howland, and St. Anne Church in Danforth, Fr. Ferdzefer is poised to lead with compassion and dedication. His journey from Kumbo-Nso to Lincoln reflects not only a geographical shift but also his lifelong commitment to spreading the Gospel and nurturing the faith of others.
In general, an administrator has the same duties and scope of authority as a pastor; however, these may be limited by the bishop. The bishop in time may decide to appoint the administrator as the pastor. A pastor is "the proper shepherd" of a parish.
With experiences that span continents and cultures, Fr. Ferdzefer is ready to inspire and guide his new parishioners in their spiritual journeys. His legacy of faith and service, nurtured in Nso, will undoubtedly leave a profound impact on the community he is set to serve.