Bishop Bibi Presides Over Requiem Mass for Mama Lolo Maria Nwanyi
His Lordship Michael Bibi, Bishop of the Diocese of Buea, on Saturday, September 26, 2026, presided over the Requiem Mass for the late Mama Lolo Maria Nwanyi, mother of Rev. Fr. James Chikezie, Dean of the Limbe Deanery, at Holy Family Parish, Newtown-Limbe. The funeral celebration brought together family members, friends, clergy and well-wishers to bid farewell to a devoted Catholic, mother, woman of faith and sacrifice, and committed member of the Catholic Women Association. The Requiem Mass offered the Christian community an opportunity to thank God for the gift of her life, pray for the peaceful repose of her soul and celebrate the legacy she leaves behind.
In his reflection, Bishop Bibi reminded the faithful that death is not the end of life, but, through Christ, becomes a pathway to resurrection. He noted that what may appear as defeat through death is transformed by the Christian faith into hope in the resurrection, assuring believers that those who have fallen asleep in Christ will rise again on the last day. He urged Christians to recognize the fragility and uncertainty of human life and to live each day in readiness for their encounter with God.
Bishop Bibi during homily
The Bishop called on the faithful to make decisive moral and spiritual choices by embracing repentance, penance, reconciliation and thanksgiving, while avoiding procrastination in serving God and seeking reconciliation with others. Addressing the bereaved family, friends and well-wishers, he encouraged them to emulate Job as an example of steadfast faith in the midst of suffering. He urged them not to allow pain and sorrow to have the final word, but to remain firm in their trust in God even during moments of profound grief.
Mothers of CWA paying last respect to their member
Bishop Bibi acknowledged that the loss of a mother or sister is never easy, but encouraged the mourners to understand death through the mystery of Christ’s Cross and Resurrection. He called on them not to allow grief to weaken their faith, but to draw strength and consolation from the Christian hope of resurrection and eternal life. The funeral celebration thus became not only a moment of mourning, but also an expression of faith in God’s promise of life beyond death.
