Day Three of the week-long Buea Diocesan Pastoral and Economic Week took place on Wednesday, January 21, 2025, with the Bishop of the Diocese of Buea, His Lordship Michael Bibi, meeting with executive members of Prayer and Action Groups, the Diocesan Youth Council, and Choir leaders.
In his opening remarks, Bishop Michael Bibi expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their sacrifices and unwavering dedication to the service of God’s people. He explained that the meeting, held within the framework of the Diocesan Pastoral Week, was aimed at evaluating the past pastoral year and outlining strategies for the new pastoral year.
The Bishop noted that the theme of the Pastoral Week, “Synodality,” is both timely and significant, especially as the Diocese prepares for its Diocesan Synod scheduled for May 2026. He explained that the Pastoral Formation Team proposed synodality as the theme for this year’s Pastoral Week, emphasizing that it means working together and journeying together as the People of God.
Bishop Bibi during his opening remarks
Bishop Bibi encouraged participants to reflect deeply on the three pillars of synodality—Communion, Participation, and Mission, which he described as essential guides for all pastoral action in the Diocese.
The Bishop further urged members to demonstrate commitment, stressing that the resolutions of this year’s Pastoral Week would be unique, particularly in terms of implementation. He called on all those present to take personal responsibility in ensuring that the decisions taken are effectively put into practice.
Representatives of prayer and Action groups
A PowerPoint presentation on the theme “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission” was delivered by Br. Kerla Cyril, OFM Cap. In his presentation, he explained the meaning of synodality, its relevance in the present time, and its application within the African and Cameroonian context, with particular focus on the Diocese of Buea. He emphasized that Christians, prayer groups, and Church movements working together to promote the mission of the Church are a clear expression of synodality in action.
Participants also made various contributions, sharing ideas and proposals from their respective groups on ways to strengthen pastoral life and make the Diocese of Buea more vibrant and effective in its mission.
According to the Catholic Church, the Pastoral Week is an annual period dedicated to evaluating diocesan pastoral activities, strengthening communion among God’s people, and planning the mission of the local Church in harmony with the vision of the Universal Church.
