Serving the Church through various forms of evangelization and with a special devotion to Mother Mary, the Cadets of Mary of the Diocese of Buea gathered at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral, on February 28th, 2026, for a Thanksgiving Mass. The Eucharistic celebration, presided over by His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi, was an opportunity for the cadets to commune in prayer with their chief shepherd of the Diocese, seek mother Mary’s intercession, render thanksgiving to God for their successes, and begin the new year with renewed spirits in Christ.
Junior cadets
In his reflection, the chief shepherd voiced profound joy and gratitude for the dedication shown by the Cadets of Mary. Bishop Michael Bibi emphasized how their commitment continues to enrich the life of the Church, offering a living sign of youthful faith in action. He gave thanks for their perseverance and asked for Mary’s constant intercession to strengthen and guide them in every effort.
The Bishop reminded the cadets that their calling goes beyond internal devotion—they are meant to stand as visible witnesses of the Gospel. He encouraged them to embody Mary’s virtues—humility, obedience, and charity—in school, at home, and in the wider community. Their example, he noted, can inspire peers and bring credibility to the faith they profess.
Speaking in the season of Lent, the prelate tied their mission to the Church’s journey with Christ. He urged the cadets to take seriously the Lenten invitation to compassion and forgiveness, recognizing that these are not abstract ideals but daily choices. In Mary, he said, they find a model of relentless faith: one who listened, trusted, and remained close to her Son even in times of darkness.
Bishop Bibi also turned attention to the families and mentors who walk alongside the cadets. He acknowledged the sacrifices of parents who nurture seeds of faith, the guidance of formators who shape character, and the support of all who contribute to their social, spiritual, and pastoral formation. For him, their work is indispensable to the cadets’ growth.
The event also featured the official dedication of new members into the Cadets of Mary and Junior Cadets and will also served as an opportunity to encourage new devotees for the Blessed Virgin Mary.
After Mass, the event continued with a march past by the cadets, followed by a variety of cultural presentations showcasing their talents.
