Cameroon: Faith Renewed As Bishop Aloysius Leads Historic Reopening of St Clair’s Parish

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

Buea, Cameroon – St. Clair’s Parish in Menji, Fontem came alive on December 8, 2024, as Christians gathered to celebrate the pastoral visit of Bishop Aloysius Fondong and the long-awaited reopening of the church. The occasion, marked by joy and devotion, highlighted the resilience and unity of the Lebialem community.

The parish closed for years because of the crisis in the South West and North West regions, reopened its doors during the Bishop Aloysius third day in Fontem, offering a renewed sense of hope. In his sermon, Bishop Aloysius expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to reconvene worship at St. Clair's, emphasizing peace, humility, and collective action as pillars for progress in Lebialem.

"This reopening is a sign of hope and renewal," Bishop Aloysius declared, calling on the faithful to remain steadfast in prayer and unity. The celebration began with Bishop Aloysius Fondong blessing of the church, sprinkling holy water on its walls and altar to rededicate the sacred space to God.

A vibrant procession featuring clergy, choirs, and parishioners set a jubilant tone. Hymns of praise filled the air as Christians walked in unity, symbolizing their shared commitment to the parish's revival.
Sacrament of confirmation

A major highlight of the event was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Dozens of candidates stepped forward to receive the Holy Spirit as the Bishop anointed them with holy chrism, a poignant moment of spiritual commitment.

The offertory was another moving aspect of the celebration, as parishioners presented their gifts in gratitude. A special offering led by the Fon of Fontem, resplendent in royal regalia, demonstrated the cultural and spiritual significance of the event.

“The reopening of St. Clair's is not just spiritual; it’s a celebration of our unity and shared commitment,” said Madam Adjua, a parishioner whose joy mirrored that of many others.
United in progress.

The parish pastoral council chair outlined urgent needs, including the installation of solar panels and the construction of a parish residence, while pledging ongoing support. The Fon of Fontem addressed the congregation, offering heartfelt prayers for peace and prosperity. His symbolic pouring of blessings on the congregation elicited cheers and applause, reaffirming the deep ties between faith and culture in Fontem.

“We are united in purpose,” said Ben Forminka, CEO of LECUDO USA. “This is a call for all sons and daughters of Lebialem to return home and contribute to the community’s development. Lebialem is back!”

“A lot has been said here, starting from the bishop, the forum, the folkloric movement, all the representatives. I'm so glad to stand here in Menji at St Clair's Parish today with this great joy and enthusiasm.”
Ben Forminka added: “We have been here two days and counting and I can assure all the elites, especially my people from LECUDO USA, that Lebialem is back. Our place is a place where we can come there freely, with no sense of fear, no sense of doubt. Lebialem is gradually picking up and we will encourage our brothers and sisters who are suffering in other places, in other towns, in other cities in Cameroon, to return to their homes so that we can together clean this place, we can together regenerate this place and turn it to what it was before.”

For many, the event signified the rekindling of faith and the resilience of the Bangwa people. “This is more than a reopening; it is a rallying call for unity and progress,” said the senior prefect of Our Lady’s Seat of Wisdom College Fontem.

The day’s festivities concluded with heartfelt speeches from community leaders, underscoring the importance of collaboration and the collective desire to build a brighter future for Lebialem.