On the 14th of September 2026, the Bishop of Buea, His Lordship Michael Bibi, led a catechetical session at St. Martin de Porres Parish, Bokwango, on the theme “Is the Cross Part of the Christian Calling?” The teaching was held as the Universal Church celebrated the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, drawing the faithful to reflect on the place of suffering in Christian life.
Bishop Michael Bibi during catechesis
Bishop Bibi taught that the Cross is central and essential to the Christian vocation, not an accidental part of discipleship. He explained that suffering, when united with Christ, belongs to the journey of every believer and must be accepted in faith. According to him, Christians cannot fully understand every cross through human wisdom alone, but are called to remain united with Christ in trials.
Christians during catechesis
Citing Matthew 10:38 – “Whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me” – the Prelate stressed that accepting the Cross shows complete commitment to Christ and His ways. He said carrying the Cross with love enables Christians to imitate Jesus, turn away from sin, abandon lifestyles contrary to the Gospel, and stay faithful amid difficulties.
The Chief Shepherd also urged the faithful to shun sin and reject what he described as the empty promises of Satan. He noted that embracing the Cross means choosing Christ even when the Christian path becomes hard, rather than seeking easy options that contradict biblical teachings. He added that Christian suffering must be understood in relation to Christ, distinct from facing consequences of wrongdoing or crimes.
Bishop Bibi clarified that the Church does not glorify suffering. He recalled that the Cross, once seen as an instrument of shame and disgrace, was transformed by Christ into a sign of redemption and salvation. He therefore called on Christians to embrace their crosses with faith and love, not as meaningless burdens, but as part of their discipleship and deeper union with Christ.