EDITORIAL COMMENTARY
The thousands who gathered at the esplanade of Presbyterian Comprehensive Secondary School (PCSS) Buea on Sunday, 16 March 2025, were more than just witnesses to the induction of the new leadership of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC). They were an indicator to the enduring faith, resilience, and commitment of a people bound together by the gospel. The massive turnout, which saw many Christians and guests in attendance, was not just a show of numbers but an expression of hope in the future of the church.
Partial of population at event
As Rt. Rev. Miki Hans Abia took on the Pectoral Cross from his predecessor, Very Rev. Dr. Fonki Samuel Forba, he was not merely stepping into office as the 7th Moderator of the PCC. He was embracing a sacred responsibility to lead, shepherd, and fortify a church that has stood firm through seasons of trials and triumphs. His theme for the next five years "Strengthening; edifying: A call to consolidate and accommodate one another" is not just a slogan but a clear vision for a church that must navigate the complexities of faith in a changing world.
Rt Rev. Miki Hans Abia, PCC Moderator
His sermon, drawn from Acts 15:36-41, was both a reflection on history and a roadmap for the future. He acknowledged that the church, like any institution, faces challenges, but he refused to see them as obstacles. Rather, he identified them as opportunities for renewal, unity, and progress. By referencing the early church’s divisions and eventual growth, he subtly reminded Presbyterians that difficult moments must not tear them apart but instead strengthen their resolve to work together.
"In our church division has not only surfaced, it has created scars and marks that we cannot ignore at all. The rift between generations has widened. Leaving many senior pastors feeling sidelined. Their decades of service overshadowed by shifting leadership dynamics. At the same time, some young pastors who have risen to positions of influence have failed to honour the wisdom of those who pave the way." He said
Induction and handing over
A particularly striking statement in his message was his reminder to the church that while he is their servant, they are not his masters. This is a powerful call to humility and accountability; two virtues that should define not only the leadership of the church but also its followers. His firm stand against the lack of a maintenance culture, generational divides among pastors, backstabbing, and the harmful criticisms of the church is a bold step towards reconciliation and growth. Constructive criticism is necessary, he emphasised, but it must be coupled with a willingness to build, rather than tear down.
The presence of high-ranking government officials, senators, municipal authorities, and traditional leaders at the induction ceremony was not just a mark of respect for the PCC but also a reminder of the influence the church holds in shaping society. In a nation grappling with socio-political tensions and economic hardship, the PCC must remain a source of moral guidance and social transformation.
South West Governor (middle)
This moment of transition is a call to action for all Presbyterians. Leadership alone cannot build the church; it requires the collective effort of both the clergy and the laity. The faithful must pray for their leaders, stand by them in difficult times, and commit to work for unity rather than division. The challenges will come, as they always do, but faith demands perseverance.
As Rt. Rev. Miki Hans and the new Synod Clerk, Rev. Ayuk Solomon, take up the mantle of leadership, the entire church must rally behind them, not merely as supporters but as active participants in strengthening and edifying the body of Christ. This is a new chapter, and it must be written with faith, love, and commitment.
By Bakah Derick
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Photo credits: Presbyterian Church in Cameroon Facebook page