On Easter Sunday, celebrated on April 20, 2025 , Christians were reminded to focus their hearts and minds on Heavenly matters, looking up to Christ in Heaven rather than becoming entangled in worldly distractions. This message was delivered by His Lordship Michael Bibi, the Local Ordinary of the Diocese of Buea, during a Eucharistic celebration at Saint Michel Archange in Buea.
Christians receive Bishop Bibi
In his homily, Bishop Bibi emphasized that Christ’s appearances to his apostles following the Resurrection were purposeful acts of reassurance. He illuminated the fears that the apostles faced and the profound hope that the risen Christ instilled in them. “As Christians,” he urged, “let us embrace hope amidst life’s myriad challenges.” The Bishop further stressed that the resurrection of Christ transcends mere symbolism; it is a monumental historical fact, one that God desires all believers to acknowledge and embrace deeply.
Bishop administers sacrament of Confirmation
Significantly, the celebration included the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, a sacred rite in which the faithful are strengthened with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This sacrament signifies a deepening of one’s faith and commitment to living as a mature Christian.
Bishop’s Pastoral Visit
The Bishop’s pastoral visit to the congregation also provided an invaluable opportunity to engage with his flock, understand their joys, and address their challenges.
Governor Benard supports construction of presbytery
Attending the Easter celebration was the Southwest Region Governor, Bernard Okalia Bilai, who joined the faithful in commemorating this significant occasion marked by hope, renewal, and communal solidarity. Governor Okalia Bilai expressed his gratitude to Bishop Michael Bibi for honoring the tradition of celebrating Easter Sunday with the community, referring to the parish as the Bishop’s home. He acknowledged the Bishop’s support for the growth of the Parish. The Governor also thanked the Bishop for his commitment to infrastructural development within the Diocese and for addressing the needs of the French-speaking community by establishing two parishes for them.
Blessing of Foundation
Together with Barrister Christopher Tambe Tiku, head of the South West branch of the Cameroon National Commission on Human Rights, and with support from their friends and the Bishop, Governor Bilai generously contributed 8 million CFA francs towards the construction of the parish’s presbytery.
