On the eve of the grand rededication of St Joseph’s Metropolitan Cathedral in Bamenda, Archbishop Andrew Nkea has outlined the full programme of activities and paid glowing tribute to the Christians whose devotion made the renovation possible.
Archbishop Andrew Nkea (black) and Pope Leo XIV
Speaking to the Archdiocesan media, the Archbishop said the evening would open with a one-hour prayer vigil from 7 to 8 p.m., during which worshippers will meditate on Christ as the Light of the World and the cathedral as “a city built on a hill that cannot be hidden.” The vigil will include prayers for all who have served the Archdiocese, the blessing of fountains, the lighting of the cathedral, and songs of thanksgiving.
He announced that Friday’s ceremony would feature the full rite of reconsecration led by the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, and attended by bishops from across the country.
“We may not have Solomon’s thousand cows, but everyone will have enough to eat, drink, and rejoice as we thank God for this gift of unity.” Archbishop Nkea said.
Reflecting on the cathedral’s renovation, the Archbishop said the success of the project belongs entirely to the faithful.
“The people of Bamenda have stood behind their bishop. When they decide to do something, they do it wholeheartedly. I told them not to expect anyone else to build the cathedral and they did it,” he said proudly.
Archbishop Nkea described the cathedral as a symbol of faith and unity beyond the Archdiocese.
“It stands like a city built on a hill that cannot be hidden... “People are coming from all corners of Cameroon, North, South, East, and West. This cathedral stands as a sign of unity for our nation.” he said.
He has congratulated the Christians of Bamenda for their determination and faith.
“Forward ever, backward never. You are a people with a vision and a mission, a people who believe in themselves. This is the synodal Church — a people on the move toward the Kingdom of Heaven.”
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Online
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