By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
The Bishops of Cameroon concluded their 48th Annual Seminar in Buea with a resounding call for peace, social justice, and responsible governance. They issued a heartfelt message emphasising the urgent need for unity, peace, and reconciliation in the face of ongoing national challenges. The seminar, which gathered church leaders from across the country, was marked by a deep reflection on the socio-economic and political climate in Cameroon and the role of the Church in fostering dialogue and healing.
Under the theme “Synodality”: Living Synodality in the Context of Our Local Church,” the week-long seminar held from January 4 to 11, 2025 and brought together religious leaders to reflect on the nation’s challenges and the Church’s role in fostering hope and reconciliation.
Final message
In their final message titled “Take Courage, Do Not Be Afraid”, the bishops voiced deep concerns over Cameroon’s deteriorating socio-economic situation. They highlighted the persistent insecurity in the North West and South West regions, the devastating impacts of corruption, poor infrastructure, and rising social inequalities. The bishops lamented that despite 65 years of independence, the country still struggles to provide basic human rights such as access to food, education, and quality healthcare.
“We cannot remain indifferent to the cries of distress from Cameroonians suffering under economic hardship and insecurity,” the bishops declared, urging political leaders to prioritise justice, reconciliation, and the welfare of the people. They emphasised that genuine peace cannot be achieved through force but through honest dialogue and forgiveness, particularly in regions plagued by ongoing conflict.
The Bishops also condemned rampant corruption and mismanagement of public funds, criticising the government’s failure to implement laws that promote transparency, such as Article 66 of the constitution, which mandates asset declarations by public officials. They called for stringent action against embezzlement and demanded that stolen public funds be recovered and returned to the national treasury.
In a spirit of unity, the Bishops appealed to every Cameroonian to embrace personal responsibility in rebuilding the nation. “We are not just victims of the crisis; we are also its causes and agents,” they stated, calling for collective efforts towards conversion, reconciliation, and the pursuit of the common good.
Apostolic Nuncio’s Message of Hope
Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, reinforced the bishops’ call for hope and solidarity. Delivering Pope Francis’ blessings, Archbishop Bettencourt reminded the faithful that 2025 is a Jubilee Year in the Catholic Church, themed “Pilgrims of Hope”. He urged Cameroonians to open the doors of their hearts to reconciliation and peace, emphasising that true peace is built on love, unity, and social justice, not on violence or division.“The door of hope is wide open,” the Nuncio proclaimed, challenging Cameroonians to embrace opportunities for dialogue and understanding, regardless of how small they may seem. He stressed the importance of patience and perseverance in healing societal divisions, inspired by Pope Francis’ global advocacy for peace and reconciliation.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea underscored the importance of the Church as a beacon of hope and a mediator in times of crisis. He urged the bishops to continue their pastoral mission with renewed vigor, emphasising that the Church must be a voice for the voiceless and a champion for justice and peace
Synodality in Action: A Path Forward
The National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC) underscored the importance of continuing the Church’s mission in a spirit of synodality, fostering communion, participation, and mission. In their final report, the bishops resolved to intensify efforts to implement the conclusions of the Synod of Bishops held in Rome in 2024, focusing on training pastoral leaders and promoting inclusive dialogue within the Church.
The report also highlighted the pressing issues facing the nation, including the ongoing conflict in the Anglophone regions, economic hardships, and the need for social cohesion. The bishops called for a collective effort to address these challenges, urging all Cameroonians to engage in constructive dialogue and to work towards a peaceful resolution of conflicts.
A significant decision from the seminar was the organisation of a National Ecclesial Assembly to evaluate pastoral strategies in line with synodal principles. Additionally, the bishops announced a national pilgrimage on April 26–27, 2025, at the National Marian Shrine of Marienburg, aimed at praying for peace, justice, and reconciliation in Cameroon.
In a passionate speech, CMA General President, Okie Johnson echoed the sentiments of the bishops, calling for a united front among Christians to promote peace and understanding. He emphasised the role of the laity in supporting the Church’s mission and encouraged community involvement in peace building initiatives.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
As Cameroon stands at a crossroads, the bishops called on all citizens—political leaders, civil servants, businesspeople, and the general populace to work together to combat poverty, injustice, and corruption. They urged the government to focus on creating jobs for the youth, promoting meritocracy, improving infrastructure, and safeguarding the environment.
In closing, the bishops offered prayers for national unity and prosperity, entrusting Cameroon to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace. They encouraged every citizen to actively participate in building a just and peaceful society. “Let us resolutely accept to convert ourselves and, above all, our mentalities and God will do the rest,” they affirmed.
The bishops concluded their seminar with a commitment to continue their advocacy for peace and reconciliation, urging all stakeholders, including government officials and civil society, to prioritise dialogue over division. Their message serves as a clarion call for all Cameroonians to come together in solidarity, fostering a spirit of hope and renewal in a nation yearning for peace.
As the bishops return to their dioceses, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to serve as instruments of peace in a country facing significant challenges. The Church’s role in promoting unity and healing has never been more critical, and the bishops are determined to lead by example in their communities.The next Annual Bishops’ Seminar is scheduled for January 2026 in the Diocese of Kumba.