Buea, Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 — Christians from across the Diocese of Buea gathered in great numbers today at the Bishop Pius Awa Memorial Pastoral Centre to warmly welcome His Excellency Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, who is in Buea ahead of the diocese’s 75th anniversary celebrations.
The Nuncio, who will preside over the historic thanksgiving Mass at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, was visibly delighted by the vibrant reception organized in his honor. Traditional dance groups, prayer and action groups, and enthusiastic youth from various parishes filled the air with songs of welcome, joy, and love, showcasing the rich cultural and spiritual life of the diocese.
The Catholic Women’s Association (CWA) welcomed the Apostolic Nuncio with songs and dance.
Before being robed in the magnificent traditional Sawa regalia by representatives of the Christian community, Archbishop Bettencourt was also welcomed by the President of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon, His Grace Archbishop Andrew Nkea of Bamenda, who joined in celebrating the Nuncio’s arrival.
Mr James vefonge welcoming the Nuncio
In a brief but heartfelt welcome ceremony, the Chairperson of the Diocesan Pastoral Council, Mr. James Vefonge, officially welcomed the Nuncio to Buea, announcing that the Christian community had conferred upon him the traditional title of Mola Lyonga — a bearer of peace and good news.
The Apostolic Nuncio and Archbishop Nkea of Bamenda
The joyful celebration marks the beginning of a historic moment in the life of the Diocese of Buea, the first diocese established in Anglophone Cameroon. As the faithful prepare for the grand anniversary Mass, the visit of the Apostolic Nuncio adds profound spiritual significance to this milestone event.
