By Engah Peter Parkers
The national president of the Catholic Men Association CMA, Okie Johnson Ndoh, has anwered the cries of Christians of St. Patrick Catholic Church Ngeme Limbe, by gifting them a statue of St. Joseph. The appeal made earlier on behalf of the Church by Brother Akimeh, President of the Catholic Men Association (CMA) at St. Patrick Catholic Church was speedily addressed by the national president, and presented to the Church on Palm Sunday, amidest huge jubilation. The plea was not not made merely for an object of worship but according Akimeh representes a profound desire to complete the Holy Family within their parish by acquiring a statue of St. Joseph. St. Patrick Catholic Church already housed statues of Jesus and Mother Mary, symbols that embody the essence of Christian devotion and family sanctity, according to the Catholic faith. However, as articulated by Brother Akimeh, the absence of St. Joseph rendered their representation incomplete, a sentiment echoed by many other parishes throughout Cameroon who similarly sought this vital addition to their spiritual heritage. Recognising the deep-rooted connection he shares with St. Patrick Ngeme Parish in Limbe, Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh prioritised this request among numerous others, as President General. His decision underscores not only his affection for this particular parish but also highlights a commitment to fostering spiritual completeness across communities. The timing of this gesture coincided with Holy Week, a period marked by reflection and reverence in the Christian calendar, making it all the more poignant for the congregation at St. Patrick Catholic Church. On Palm Sunday, as members processed into the church with joyful anticipation, they were met with a momentous occasion: the presentation of the long-awaited statue of St. Joseph. Brother Ngah Eric, appointed by Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh to oversee this ceremonial event alongside Communication Secretary, Wasso Norbert, expressed gratitude for being part of such an impactful moment in their community’s spiritual journey. The handing over ceremony was filled with jubilant celebrations. Christians waved palm branches high above their heads while singing praises “Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!”. In reflecting on this significant stage of achievement for St. Patrick Catholic Church Ngeme Limbe, Brother Ngah noted that “the Christians are all happy.” Moreover, Rev Father Ernest Ensah’s acknowledgment during this ceremony emphasised gratitude towards Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh’s initiative and expressed hope for his presence during an upcoming blessing ceremony for the statue, a testament to ongoing engagement between parish leadership and CMA representatives. The arrival of St. Joseph’s statue serves as a beacon of hope and fulfillment for Ngeme Christians. It symbolises not just completion but also unity within their faith community; where Jesus is present alongside Mary and now Joseph, signifying a holistic representation of familial sanctity rooted in Christian teachings. The collective prayers offered by members at St. Patrick Catholic Church Ngeme for good health and longevity for Brother Okie Johnson Ndoh encapsulate an appreciation that transcends mere words; it reflects a deep-seated understanding that leadership grounded in faith can indeed put smiles on faces while nurturing spiritual growth within parishes across Cameroon.
