In a reflection on faith and culture, His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi, Bishop of Buea, on Monday, September 29th, 2025, led a catechetical session centered on the Inculturation Commission. Highlighting the delicate balance between preserving Church doctrine and embracing cultural diversity, the bishop emphasized that inculturation is the Church’s intentional effort to root the Gospel in various cultural settings without compromising its truth.
BISHOP BIBI DRILLING CHRISTIANS ON THE IN-CULTURATION COMMISSION
Within the Bamenda Ecclesiastical Province, the Inculturation Commission plays an important role in ensuring that the message of Christ resonates deeply with local traditions,without compromising the integrity of Catholic doctrine and the gospel. In the Diocese of Buea, the activities of the Inculturation Commission are closely overseen by His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi, who, as the proper teacher of the faith, ensures that all efforts in adapting liturgy, evangelization, and Christian practices to local cultural realities remain faithful to the teachings of the Church.
The Inculturation Commission is composed of priests, religious, and lay Christians who are well-grounded in both the Catholic faith and local cultural traditions. These members are selected based on their knowledge, commitment, and availability to serve the Church. Together, they work to ensure that cultural expressions enrich, rather than conflict with, Catholic doctrine and practice, while supporting the bishop in guiding the faithful toward a deeper, culturally rooted understanding of their faith.
In conclusion, the Inculturation Commission serves as a
bridge between faith and culture, ensuring that the Gospel is expressed in ways that resonate deeply with local realities without compromising Catholic doctrine.