Members of the Catholic Men’s Association (CMA) are called to live out their apostolic mission by spreading the Good News. This reminder came from His Lordship, Bishop Michael Bibi of the Diocese of Buea, during an extended meeting of the national executive of the CMA, held in Buea from October 18th to 19th, 2024.
In his brief address to the members gathered at the Bishop Pius Awa Memorial Pastoral Center, Bishop Bibi emphasized that the Church consistently teaches that Christ is the center of every apostolate. “The heart of every apostolic mission should be Christ-centered,” he reminded the participants, stressing the need for every apostolate to maintain a focus on Jesus Christ.
Bishop Bibi addressing CMA executives
The Bishop encouraged the members of the CMA to follow the example of their patron saint, St. Joseph. He recounted the biblical story of Joseph, highlighting his righteousness and integrity when he discovered that the Blessed Virgin Mary had conceived by the Holy Spirit. Although Joseph did not initially understand the circumstances of Mary’s pregnancy, he chose to protect her dignity by considering a quiet divorce rather than exposing her to public shame. It was only after an angelic visitation that Joseph understood his role and accepted Mary as his wife.
Cross Section of CMA members
Bishop Bibi urged the men of the Church to emulate St. Joseph’s integrity and honor in their personal lives and within their families. He called on them to be protectors of their families, leading with righteousness, honor, and a sense of responsibility, just as St. Joseph did.
During the meeting, the National President of the CMA, Mr. Okie Johnson, expressed his gratitude to Bishop Bibi for his warm reception of the national executive and for his acceptance to host the CMA’s national secretariat in the Diocese of Buea.
Bishop Bibi given a guided tour at CMA Secretariat in Buea
The gathering concluded with a guided tour of the CMA’s national secretariat, located near the Bishop Pius Awa Memorial Pastoral Center, where Bishop Bibi and the executive members were shown around the facility.
