The Rt Rev Fonki Samuel, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), has delivered his last message as Moderator during an anniversary celebration of the Church's autonomy. Addressing the faithful across PCC congregations in Cameroon and beyond, the Moderator reflected on the Church’s legacy, spiritual growth, and upcoming leadership transition, praying that God will bless the PCC with Synod leaders who are committed to His will.
The Moderator, who has served the Church for two terms since 2014, expressed gratitude for the resilience, faith, and steadfastness of PCC members, encouraging them to uphold these values as they look towards the election of a new Moderator and Synod Clerk.
“I leave you with the following intangible assets: our resilient faith, our enduring mindset, our crises-driven determination, and our Christian entrepreneurial spirit to sustain the Church's mission, compassion, and diakonia work,” he said, imploring members to nurture and build upon these pillars.
In his final “Last Wish” to the Church, Rev Fonki urged members to remain prayerful and receptive to God’s guiding hand throughout the election process.
“The Church will be blessed with the gift of a new Moderator and Synod Clerk from God Himself who appoints leaders at His own time,” he stated, calling upon PCC members to support their future leaders through prayer and encouragement, believing in “the God of new beginnings for new possibilities and new perspectives.”
The theme of the occasion, “Blessed Assurance,” was inspired by Psalm 124:1 and highlighted the message of resilience and gratitude for the PCC’s journey since its autonomy from the Basel Mission in 1957.
Reflecting on this heritage, Rev Fonki recalled the dedication of early missionaries and the sacrifice they made to establish the Church.
“It is on this legacy of spiritual zeal and purpose that this great Church, the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon, was planted,” he reminded congregants.
With membership that has now grown to nearly two million, the Church continues to have a transformative impact on Cameroonian society, promoting humanitarian values, community development, and the Christian faith.
As the PCC prepares for the upcoming Synod meeting on November 19, Rev Fonki offered a prayer for unity and discernment, asking God to “bless us with new Synod leaders who will do His will.” He also acknowledged the congregants’ integrity during recent local elections, which included the selection of elders, presbytery leaders, and other key Church officials. While minor misunderstandings arose, he praised the overall spirit of unity and commitment to the Church's values.
“The GREAT I AM who appointed you is also anointing you,” he declared, urging members to carry this faith forward as they look toward the Synod elections.
According to our sources within the PCC, the nominees for the Moderator position include Rev Meki Hans, Rev Njongai Polycap, and Rev Numfor Godwin, while Rev Ayuk Solomon Etta, Rev Mokoko Simon, and Rev Mokoko Thomas are in the running for Synod Clerk.
As the Synod prepares to choose these new leaders, Rev Fonki encouraged all members to pray against divisiveness and maintain a spirit of unity.
“May God easily regroup us after the election as one big united Church for leadership and discipleship,” he said.
As he bids farewell to his role, Rev Fonki’s message was one of hope and continuity, trusting that the Church would grow “bigger and better” and rise to new challenges with fresh vision and determination.
“Life is a journey, and every goodbye paves the way for new zeal and ideas. Cheers to the memories we have shared and the adventures that await this Church.”
The 67th Presbyterian Church Day marks the end of an era for Rev Fonki, who is celebrated for his contributions, particularly in infrastructure and investment for the PCC. His message leaves a spiritual legacy for the incoming leaders, who, he prays, will guide the Church according to God’s will and for the well-being of all its members.
By Bakah Derick
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