On the April 13th, 2026, the Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Buea, His Lordship Michael Miabesue Bibi, led a catechetical session at Saint Charles Lwanga Parish, Molyko, under the theme “The Role of the Pope in the Catholic Church.” Convened two days prior to the Apostolic Visit of the Holy Father to Cameroon, the session intended to provide theological and pastoral information to the faithful regarding the ministry of the Supreme Pontiff, his office as Successor of Saint Peter, and his service as the perpetual and visible principle of unity of the universal Church.
Bishop Bibi during catedchesis
The Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Buea, His Lordship Michael Miabesue Bibi, underscored the essential mission entrusted to the Holy Father. He noted that the Pope, as Successor of Saint Peter and Vicar of Christ on earth, has the grave responsibility to safeguard the deposit of faith and ensure that it is transmitted to the people of God in its integrity, without alteration or dilution. In this capacity, the Supreme Pontiff guarantees that authentic Catholic doctrine is faithfully preserved and handed down across generations.
Addressing the significance of the forthcoming Apostolic Visit to Cameroon, the principal teacher of the faith in the Diocese explained that papal visits serve a profound pastoral purpose. They are moments of grace intended to encourage and strengthen Christians in their faith, to revitalize local ecclesiastical authorities in their mission, and to promote the Gospel values of justice, peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness within the life of the local Church and the wider society.
Christains during catechesis
The prelate further clarified the canonical and diplomatic requirements that precede any papal journey. He emphasized that a visit by the Holy Father must be predicated upon two formal invitations: one from the local ecclesiastical hierarchy and another from the civil authorities of the host nation. Moreover, he stressed that comprehensive preparations spanning liturgical, social, security, and logistical dimensions must be meticulously undertaken by both Church and State to ensure the pastoral fruitfulness and dignified conduct of the papal presence.