(ZENIT News / Minkama, Cameroon, 12.03.2024).- What began as a modest chapel in Minkama, Cameroon, has blossomed into a beacon of hope and faith, now officially recognized as a sanctuary. This transformation was announced on November 24, during the solemnity of Christ the King, by Bishop Sosthène Léopold Bayemi of the Diocese of Obala. The journey of this sanctuary, built by Polish missionaries of the Congregation of Marian Fathers, reflects a profound commitment to both spiritual growth and social development in the heart of Africa.
A Legacy Rooted in Prophecy
Forty years ago, Pope St. John Paul II highlighted the urgency of adapting evangelization to meet the challenges of modern society. Inspired by his words, the Marian Fathers established their mission in Cameroon in 1999, building their first church in Atok and a seminary in Ngoya. The small chapel they constructed in Minkama in 2014 became their third significant undertaking in the region.
Fast forward a decade, the chapel—now a thriving parish—has been elevated to a sanctuary, embodying the missionaries’ vision and the prophetic guidance of Pope St. John Paul II.
A Celebration of Milestones
The announcement coincided with a ceremony rich in symbolism, commemorating four milestones:
- 350 years since the founding of the Marian Fathers.
- 25 years of their missionary presence in Cameroon.
- 10 years since the canonization of Pope St. John Paul II.
- A decade since the Minkama chapel was built.
The event drew an array of distinguished attendees, including the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon, Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, and several bishops from across the region. Leaders of the Marian Fathers, including their Superior General, Father Joseph Roesch MIC, and representatives of Polish parishes that supported the mission, also participated.
A Sanctuary Built by Faith and Hands
The sanctuary’s development was a collaborative effort between missionaries and local parishioners. Many community members actively contributed to the construction, transforming the church into a 1,100-square-meter space that serves both as a place of worship and a hub for education and social support.
Over the years, the parish has implemented numerous initiatives, from catechesis programs for youth to vocational training for those with limited educational opportunities. It also offers support for mothers and families in need. Today, the parish is home to 3,000 baptized Catholics and serves as a center for spiritual and social renewal.
A Testament to the Power of Evangelization
In his remarks, Bishop Bayemi praised the Marian Fathers for their dedication, describing the sanctuary as a testament to the enduring impact of missionary work. Father Roesch echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the sanctuary’s role in embodying the congregation’s mission to serve and uplift.
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