Christians of St John Paul II Parish in Ekona have been challenged to give thanks to God in every circumstance as they carry on with their pilgrim journey on earth. Hit by the crisis plaguing the Northwest and the Southwest Regions of the country, the town of Ekona is in record as one affected greatly since the emergence of the crisis. During a pastoral visit to this Christian community on Sunday October 22nd, the local ordinary of the Diocese of Buea Bishop Michael Bibi, praised parishioners for being steadfast in their believe amidst the difficult atmosphere of insecurity promulgated by the Anglophone crisis. He encouraged the Christians not to give up on prayers but to surrender all to God who is Just and at the same time a merciful Father.
St John Paul II Parish in Ekona
The visit which took place within the context of the celebration of the feast day of this parish; the Feast of St John Paul II, was an opportunity for the Prelate to pray with his Christians and to thank God for His protection and care over them.
Christians of St John Paul II Parish, Ekona
Drawing from the Gospel of Mark 12: 17, His Lordship reminded the Christians to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God. This implies that Christians must differentiate their responsibility to the State and that towards Jesus who is the true Religion.
Christians of St John Paul II Parish in Ekona
He further made reference to the Gospel of Matthew 21: 12-22 where Jesus was hailed by the crowd when he made a triumphant entry into Jerusalem. This attracted anger in the hearts of the Pharisees who planned to kill Jesus and went ahead to flatter Him. The prelate cautioned these Christians to be aware of deceit and to be firm in prayers while forgiving those who hurt them just as God forgives iniquities. His Lordship also reiterated the need for children to enjoy the basic right to education within the context of the Anglophone crisis. With regards to this, he promised to take care of the tuition of children who are financially handicap, so as to give them the opportunity to be educated.
Bishop Bibi visits St John Paul II Parish in Ekona
Reverend Fr. Anslem Kebei; Parish Priest of St John Paul II Parish, expressed gratitude to the Bishop for always being among them and for His continuous love and concern for the Christians.
ballet by Parish priests and Christians of St John Paul II Parish in Ekona
The pastoral visit witnessed moments of display by different groups in appreciation to the chief shepherd.
