Wednesday August 14th, 2024, the Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt on a Pastoral Mission to Bafoussam, called on Christians to advocate for peace, and to be humble for peace to be achieved. “Peace is from God. Violence is the creation of evil. Violence is never justified. Let us stop obstacles of peace” Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt noted.
This call was made as the Nuncio officiated a Pontifical Mass at the new Cathedral in Bafoussam within the context of the Diocesan Annual Pilgrimage of the Diocese of Bafoussam. During the Eucharistic celebration, he joined Bishop Paul Lontsié-Keuné, Bishop of Bafoussam, Bishop Michael Bibi of Buea, Religious men and women and faithful of the Diocese of Bafoussam, to pray for peace in the world and in Cameroon in particular.
His Lordship Paul Lontsié-Keuné, Bishop of Bafoussam, during his Homily, saluted the presence of Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, Bishop Michael Bibi, priests, Religious and Christians for convening in Bafoussam with the one mission to pray for peace in crisis hit places especially for peace in Cameroon. He challenged Christians to make individual and collective efforts to bring peace and to be ambassadors of peace wherever they find themselves.
Bishop Paul encouraged Christians to do all it takes and to get themselves registered and vote during the forthcoming presidential elections in the country. for who they are convinced will bring peace to Cameroon. He said that this act would promote social justice in Cameroon; a country where many are afraid due to kidnappings, the rise of hate speech, and tribalism, among others. The prelate called on them to trust in the saving Grace of God and told them not to give in to fear but to strive for unity and the spirit of fraternity while shunning all forms of tribalism and division amongst them.
The event of this day commenced with a peace walk followed by adoration of the blessed Sacrament and the Pontifical High Mass.
The pastoral visit of then apostolic Nuncio, continues till August 17, 2024