Buea, Tuesday, May 6th, 2024 — In a deeply spiritual and reflective encounter, His Excellency Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, met today with priests and religious of the Diocese of Buea as part of his official visit to the region.
The meeting, held on the eve of the diocese’s grand 75th anniversary celebrations, took place in a warm and fraternal atmosphere, bringing together clergy and consecrated persons from across the diocese. Archbishop Bettencourt, who represents the Holy See in Cameroon, is in Buea to officiate the landmark jubilee celebrations slated for Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral.
Apostolic nuncio talking to priests
Accompanied by the Bishop of Buea, His Lordship Michael Miabesue Bibi, the Apostolic Nuncio used the occasion to share insights from his priestly journey, reflecting on the joys, challenges, and sacred responsibilities of the priesthood. “I am here to talk to you, to encourage you, and to listen to you,” Archbishop Bettencourt said, offering words of hope and spiritual nourishment to the gathered clergy.
The meeting was marked by moments of candid sharing, prayerful reflection, and mutual encouragement, as priests and religious engaged openly with the Vatican envoy, drawing strength from his presence and message.
Cross section of priests in attendance
The Diocese of Buea, the first diocese created in Anglophone Cameroon, celebrates 75 years of evangelization, pastoral growth, and community service. Wednesday’s jubilee Mass is expected to draw thousands of faithful from across the country, with dignitaries, bishops, and lay faithful joining in thanksgiving.
Archbishop Bettencourt’s visit not only underscores the importance of the Diocese of Buea in the life of the Church in Cameroon but also reaffirms the Holy See’s solidarity with the local church in its mission to proclaim the Gospel and serve the people of God.
