National and Diocesan Directors of the Pontifical Mission Society (PMS), led by their President, Bishop Jean Bosco Ntep, are gathered in Buea for their 32nd National Conference.
The conference, currently taking place at the Bishop Pius Awa Memorial Pastoral Center, was officially opened today, January 13, 2025. The event is being held under the theme, “Go and Invite Everyone to the Banquet.”
The conference began with an opening Mass on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral in Buea.
In his welcome address, His Lordship Michael Bibi, Bishop of Buea, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the members of PMS for their dedicated work in various dioceses to promote the mission of the Church. He thanked them for choosing the Diocese of Buea as the venue for their meeting and acknowledged the consistent support his diocese has received from the Pontifical Mission Society.
Speaking during the event, the President of PMS, Bishop Jean Bosco Ntep, extended his appreciation to the people of Buea and their Bishop for the warm hospitality extended during the 48th Annual Seminar of Bishops and now for hosting the members of PMS. He also commended the Diocesan Directors of PMS for their collaboration over the past year, emphasizing the critical role such unity plays in ensuring the smooth functioning of the Pontifical Mission Society.
The National Director of PMS introduced the newly appointed Secretary General and encouraged members to foster peace and unity in their work within the Society. He highlighted the meeting held last year between Pope Francis and over 120 National Directors of PMS, during which the Holy Father emphasized the need for communion, creativity, and tenacity in their missionary efforts.
The National Director also urged Diocesan Directors to actively engage in the 2025 celebrations at various levels, as this would deepen their understanding of the mission and objectives of PMS.
The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Bishop Emmanuel Ndasi, Bishop of Bafia, who is also a member of the commission.