The Administrator Apostólico of Ebibeyin, Mons. Mbo Olinga, has called for a return to the true meaning of faith and sacraments within the Church. At the official opening of the 2026-2027 pastoral year, he urged the diocesan clergy to preserve the sense of faith and sacraments. He criticized priests who offer "banal blessings," saying they reduce the sacramental grace to magic. This statement was made during his homily to priests, religious, and pastoral agents in the diocese.
Mons. Mbo Olinga identified several factors contributing to a growing loss of faith, including illiteracy, drug addiction, rural exodus, secularization, and the loneliness faced by many priests in their parishes. He emphasized that the Church is the mystical body of Christ and urged priests to proclaim that "the Church is not something secondary." This message aimed to reaffirm the importance of the Church and its role in the lives of the faithful.
The Administrator Apostólico also addressed the issue of witchcraft, describing it as "obsolete" and a "drama in the 21st century." He called for greater formation and a deeper experience of faith, enabling Christians to confront such practices from a Christian doctrine perspective. This stance reflects the Church's ongoing efforts to address issues related to traditional practices and modern challenges.
For the 2026-2027 pastoral year, the diocese has set several objectives, prioritizing doctrinal formation at all levels through catechesis. Additionally, the diocese aims to plan its pastoral action in accordance with the diocesan pastoral project and implement its guidelines in various communities. These objectives build on the "testaments" left by Mons. Miguel Ángel Nguema Bee, guiding the diocese's pastoral action.
Mons. Mbo Olinga's message was also directed at pastoral agents, whom he recognized as essential to carrying out the Church's mission. He acknowledged their crucial role in implementing the diocese's objectives and advancing its pastoral goals. By emphasizing their importance, he encouraged them to continue their vital work within the diocese.
The priorities set for the upcoming pastoral year reflect the diocese's commitment to strengthening its faith community. By focusing on doctrinal formation and implementing the diocesan pastoral project, the diocese aims to foster a deeper understanding of Christian teachings and address the challenges faced by its members. This proactive approach demonstrates the diocese's dedication to its flock.
The call for a renewed focus on faith and sacraments comes at a critical time for the Ebibeyin diocese. As the Church continues to navigate modern challenges, Mons. Mbo Olinga's message serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the integrity of sacramental practices and promoting a deeper understanding of Christian doctrine.
Key points
- The Ebibeyin Diocese aims to prioritize doctrinal formation through catechesis in the 2026-2027 pastoral year.
- Mons. Mbo Olinga criticizes priests offering "banal blessings" that reduce sacramental grace to magic.
- The diocese seeks to address challenges such as illiteracy, drug addiction, and rural exodus that contribute to a growing loss of faith.
