On Monday August 4th 2025, the Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Buea, His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi led a doctrine session at Saint Martin de Porres Parish Bokwango. The doctrinal session, focused on the finance commission, a fundamental part of the Bamenda Provincial Pastoral Plan. The Doctrinal Session aimed at educating the public, and deepening their understanding on the importance of finances in the functioning of the church, and how finances are raised and managed by the church.
The Bishop underscored that the church cannot exist without money, thereby necessitating the existence of the Finance Commission.
CHRISTIANS LISTENING TO BISHOP BIBI TEACH
The Finance Commission consists of a host of members which includes the laity, the catechist, the clergy and religious. Worthy of note is the fact that, these members can either be elected or appointed. However, members of the Finance Commission are called upon to uphold the virtues of integrity and credibility.
The chief shepherd stressed on the importance of financial integrity, cautioning against the misappropriation and theft of funds.
He stressed that no one, including Christians and priests, should handle funds without proper accountability and authorization. This cautionary message serves as a reminder to uphold transparency and trust in financial matters.
The local ordinary further emphasized the key roles of the finance commission noting that amongst other things, the are expected to
1) Make annual budgets of all parishes within the Diocese.
2) Look for ways through which Parishes and Dioceses can raise finances
3) Ensure there is the existence of accountability and transparency in the collection, execution and management of the churches finances4) Educate Christian’s on the necessity of donations and within their means
5) Encourage fundraising activities at all levels for the support of projects.
CHRISTIANS OF SAINT MARTIN THE PORRESS PARISH,BOKWANGO
He also emphasized that parishes and Dioceses are allowed to own property to run and finance their activities.Properties with the ability to generate income such as rental properties through buildings and church halls are also encouraged.
The Bishop encouraged generous contributions to the church while emphasizing the need for integrity and transparency in handling church funds.