In a continued effort to strengthen evangelization and faith formation across the Diocese of Buea, His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi, Chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Buea, on Monday, September 1st, 2025, led a doctrinal session at Regina Pacis Cathedral, Small Soppo. The session focused on the Catechetical Commission, of the Bamenda Provincial Pastoral Plan, highlighting its essential role in spreading the Gospel and deepening the Church’s mission of evangelism.
CHRISTIANS OF REGINA PACIS CATHEDRAL SMALL SOPPO BUEA ATTENDING THE CATECHETICAL SESSION.
During his teaching on the Catechetical Commission—one of the 19 commissions of the Bamenda Provincial Pastoral Plan, His Lordship Michael Bibi, the Local Ordinary of the Diocese of Buea, highlighted that evangelization consists of three stages: proclamation, catechesis (the deepening of faith), and ongoing formation (maturity in the Gospel). He defined catechesis as a crucial stage in the process of evangelization, described as the act of communicating the Word of God.
Bishop Bibi explained that the Holy Spirit is present throughout every catechetical experience in three distinct ways: in the one who teaches the doctrine, in the very act of teaching, and in the hearts of those who receive and embrace the message.
CHRISTIANS IN ATTENDANCE FOR THE CATECHETICAL SESSION.
In highlighting the Catechetical Commission’s mandate, Bishop Bibi further emphasized the distinction between Catechetics; the art of faith formation and catechism, the substance of Church doctrine. He also defined catechumens as individuals journeying toward baptism. Stressing the need for commission members to be deeply formed in the faith, he emphasized their role as vessels of evangelization. The bishop’s reference to ‘Fidei depositum’ reinforced the apostolic roots of Church teachings, entrusted to the faithful for preservation and proclamation.
The chief shepherd further noted that the Catechetical Commission comprises a diverse group of individuals, including priests, religious, catechists, and knowledgeable members of the Christian faithful, all united in their understanding and commitment to Catholic doctrine.
The five goals of catechesis include:
1. Conversation
2. Community—bringing people together
3. Content—handing on the whole and entire truth
4. Contemplation—assisting in prayer
5. Commitment
Through the Catechetical Commission, the Church pursues its missionary mandate, spreading the Gospel and deepening faith.