The Bishop of the Diocese of Buea, His Lordship Michael Bibi, has credited the success of the diamond jubilee celebration of Bishop Rogan Minor Seminary, Small Soppo, Buea, to God’s abundant blessings.
The Chief Shepherd of Buea, himself a proud alumnus of this prestigious formation institution, was visibly filled with emotion and nostalgia on January 18, 2025, as he delivered a heartfelt homily during the closing Mass marking the culmination of activities celebrating the seminary’s 60th anniversary.
Bishop Bibi delivering his homily
Speaking at the esplanade of Regina Pacis Cathedral in the presence of students, alumni, guests, and religious leaders—many of whom also passed through BIROCOL—Bishop Bibi highlighted the divine inspiration that led to the founding of the seminary and credited God for its continued success.
Cross section of students
He proudly noted that all the Bishops of the Bamenda Ecclesiastical Province are former students of BIROCOL. Reflecting on his personal experience at the seminary, Bishop Bibi shared anecdotes from his days as a student, eliciting laughter and nostalgia from his classmates and other alumni in attendance.
Alumni of BIROCOL
As proprietor of the institution, Bishop Bibi expressed profound gratitude to the alumni for their sacrifices and contributions to the seminary’s development. He urged all priests who are former students but not yet members of the Alumni Association to make an effort to register and actively participate in its activities.
Staff of BIROCOL
The Bishop also extended thanks to other stakeholders who have supported the growth of BIROCOL over the years, reiterating its vital role as a formation ground for priests. He announced that the closing Mass marked the end of a week-long celebration that included sporting activities, outreach to orphanages, and other commemorative events.
On his part, Molute Simon, the President General of the BIROCOL Ex-Students Association, congratulated the current students for upholding the seminary’s tradition of excellence. He encouraged fellow alumni to remain faithful to the values instilled in them during their time at BIROCOL.
To him the success of any educational Institution is the success of its Alumni and their darling college has trained and produced 5 Bishops who are all serving the church today
Bishop Bibi unveils anniversary project
During the Mass which was presided over by Archbishop Andrew Nkea, Atchbisop of Bamenda in the presence of all the Bishops of the Bamenda ecclesiastical province, some members of the BIROCOL family received apostolic blessings, a highlight of the ceremony.
The event also featured a vibrant march-past by different batches of students, starting with the pioneering class of 1964. Bishops and other dignitaries proudly led their respective batches in the colorful procession, which was a testament to BIROCOL’s rich history and legacy.
colorful match pass
The Bishop also led the delegation to unveil some anniversary projects sponsored by Alumni and other stakeholders of the institution
Bishop of Mamfe poses with his BIROCOL class mates
