On Monday, April 14, 2025, His Lordship Michael Bibi, the Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Buea, conducted a profound catechetical session at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Great Soppo. The focus of his teaching was the essential Christian belief expressed in the creed: “He descended into hell, and on the third day he rose from the dead.”
Christians at catechetical session
During the session, Bishop Bibi provided a detailed explanation of the notion of particular judgment, emphasizing that after death, each soul faces judgment that determines its eternal destiny—whether to enter heaven, endure purgatory, or experience hell. He elaborated on the significance of Jesus’ descent into hell, describing it as a necessary act to redeem the righteous souls who had died before His death. According to the teachings of the, Bishop Bibi noted that hell serves as a realm for those who have sinned and failed to seek forgiveness, where they are eternally deprived of the vision of God.
faithful drilled on what Hell is
“Before Christ’s death and resurrection, no one entered heaven,” Bishop Bibi stated. “Jesus’ descent was not an act of destruction of hell but a mission of salvation for the just souls who awaited His redemptive grace.” Drawing from the Gospel of Saint Luke 16: 19-31, he illustrated the concept of hell through the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, emphasizing that Jesus’ mission included freeing righteous souls from the bondage of sin.
Further addressing the creed’s affirmation of Christ’s resurrection, Bishop Bibi framed it as a definitive historical event rather than mere theological invention. He pointed to the empty tomb and the accounts of the Apostles’ discovery as tangible evidence of the resurrection. “The empty tomb was a poignant reminder of Jesus’ promise: ‘I will destroy this temple, and in three days, I will raise it up,’” he recounted, highlighting how Jesus’ appearances to Thomas and others after His resurrection served as further testament to His triumph over death.
attendees’ express concerns, get clarity
Bishop Bibi described the physical transformation of Jesus’ body into a glorified form, underscoring that the resurrection represents one of the foundational teachings of the Church, offering believers hope for life after death. He affirmed that Christ’s resurrection is intrinsically linked to the Trinity, serving as an inspiration for Christians to aspire to virtuous lives and maintain hope in their own resurrection
