Priests of the Diocese of Buea Reaffirm Commitment to Faithfulness During 2025 Chrism Mass
Priests of the Diocese of Buea have recommitted themselves to their priestly vows, pledging to remain faithful, assist their bishop, preach the Gospel according to Church teachings, obey their bishop and his successors, and uphold celibacy. This renewal of commitment took place during the 2025 Chrism Mass, presided over by His Lordship Michael Bibi at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral, attended by priests, religious, and Christian members of the Diocese.
Cross sectiok of Christians
In his homily, Bishop Bibi urged the priests to stand united with their bishop in a spirit of obedience. He emphasized that they should work collaboratively, treating one another as friends, and called for solidarity among the priests. “Let no man do anything related to the Church without the bishop,” he stated, reminding them to reflect on their faithfulness to their promises.
Executive members of of some prayer and action groups
Bishop Bibi also encouraged the Christian community to pray for their priests, that they might be faithful stewards of the Mysteries of the faith. Additionally, he called on the faithful to pray for their bishop, that he may remain steadfast in his faith and set a good example as he serves the Church.
Cross section of Christians
The Mass featured the blessing of the oil for the sick, the oil for catechumens, and the consecration of Holy Chrism. Drawing inspiration from the Catechism of the Catholic Church (paragraph 1515), the bishop highlighted the role of anointing oils in restoring health to the sick and the elderly, noting that only priests are authorized to anoint with the oil for the sick. The oil for catechumens is used in the sacrament of baptism, while Holy Chrism symbolizes the Holy Spirit and is utilized in confirmation, the ordination of priests and bishops, and the dedication of churches. Priests are instructed to burn the leftover oils from the previous year and use the newly blessed and consecrated oils throughout the coming year.
The Mass also included the 2025 Cathedraticum, a collection of support in kind and cash from the Christians, which aids the bishop in fulfilling his pastoral duties. In closing, Bishop Bibi expressed his gratitude to all the priests, religious, and laity for their unwavering support of the Diocese’s pastoral mission.
The event took place at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral on the 15th of April 2025
