Buea, Cameroon – The Bishop of Mamfe, His Lordship Aloysius Fondong Abangalo drew inspiration from the Gospel of St. Mark, offering insights into the divinity and identity of Jesus Christ to his brother Bishops today Wednesday January 8th, 2025, the chapel of the Bishops Pius Awah memorial Pastoral centre.
His brief but inspiring sermon, centered on the awe-inspiring moment when Jesus walked on water and calmed a raging storm, was both a theological exploration and a source of encouragement for Christians facing life’s storms.
(L-R) Fr Epie, Archbishop Andrew Nkea, Bishop Aloysius Abangalo
In recounting this miraculous event, Bishop Abangalo emphasized Jesus’ immense power over nature. “By walking on the sea, Jesus reveals his divinity and identity – he is God,” the Bishop proclaimed. He elaborated on the significance of Jesus’ words, “Courage, it’s I; do not be afraid.” The phrase “It’s I” (translated from the Greek ego eimi) connects directly to the divine name revealed to Moses in the Book of Exodus, affirming Jesus as the great “I Am.”
Cross section of Bishops during the mass
The Bishop also reminded his peers that Jesus Christ’s presence brings peace amid life’s chaos. “When Christ is present, the storms of life are calmed, the unbearable becomes bearable, and people pass through breaking points without breaking,” he said. He highlighted that faith in Christ is the fundamental virtue required of every Christian, as it anchors believers in God’s unwavering strength and love.
Bishops at the Chapel
“We can believe in Jesus Christ because he is God,” the Bishop affirmed. “Only Jesus has seen the Father, knows him, and reveals him.”
Drawing parallels to contemporary challenges, Bishop Abangalo acknowledged the violence, fear, and uncertainty plaguing many regions in Cameroon. He empathized with those burdened by fear of the unknown, past mistakes, and health issues, urging them to take solace in Jesus’ timeless words: “Courage, it’s I; do not be afraid.”
Cross section of Bishops during Mass
“Christ calls us to face life’s storms with unwavering trust in his power and love. Just as he calmed the sea for his disciples, he can calm the storms within our lives and hearts,” Bishop Abangalo said.
The Bishop was preaching during the morning meditation as part of activities for their 48th annual seminar currently being held in Buea” propose headlines
