The Basilique Marie-Reine-des-Apôtres in Yaoundé hosted a pontifical mass on September 19, marking the national launch of celebrations for the centenary of Mission Sunday. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Mgr Cletus Ashu Amah, director national des Œuvres pontificales missionnaires. The celebration signifies 100 years of the Church's mobilization for evangelization.
In his opening address, Mgr Cletus Ashu Amah highlighted the significance of the initiative, emphasizing the importance of prayer, awareness, and fundraising to support missionary work. He outlined the next stages of the celebrations, including diocesan and parish events, with the parish festival scheduled for October 18. The centenary theme, "Unis dans le Christ, unis en mission" (United in Christ, united in mission), guided the discussions.
Mgr Faustin Ambassa Ndjodo, archbishop of Garoua and president of the commission for evangelization within the National Episcopal Conference, encouraged the faithful to live their faith daily. He urged individuals to take responsibility for spreading the message of Christ. The event marked the beginning of a series of activities that will continue in dioceses and parishes across the country.
During the homily, Mgr Emmanuel Dassi Youfang, bishop of Bafia, stressed the need for change and renewal in the Church. He emphasized the importance of evangelization and the role of every individual in spreading the Gospel. The celebrations aim to revitalize the missionary spirit and encourage Cameroonians to take an active part in sharing their faith.
The centenary celebrations will involve various activities, including prayer sessions, awareness campaigns, and fundraising events. The Church aims to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in the missionary work. By commemorating 100 years of Mission Sunday, the Church in Cameroon seeks to reaffirm its commitment to spreading the message of Christ.
Mission Sunday is a significant event in the Catholic Church, dedicated to promoting missionary work and supporting evangelization efforts worldwide. In Cameroon, the centenary celebrations will provide an opportunity for the Church to reflect on its missionary journey and look towards the future. The event is expected to inspire a new wave of enthusiasm for evangelization.
The Cameroon Tribune newspaper reported on the event, highlighting the importance of the centenary celebrations for the Church in Cameroon. The celebrations will continue in the coming weeks, with various events and activities planned across the country. The Church has invited all Cameroonians to participate in the celebrations and take an active role in spreading the message of Christ.
Key points
- The centenary celebrations of Mission Sunday in Cameroon have been launched with a national event at the Basilique Marie-Reine-des-Apôtres in Yaoundé.
