By Marinus NKOUEDJO
Members of the Samba Church Group of the Archdiocese of Bamenda gathered at the Saint Joseph Metropolitan Cathedral, Big Mankon, to celebrate the Feast of their Patron Saint, St. Francis Xavier. The Pontifical Holy Mass was presided over by His Grace Andrew Nkea, Archbishop of Bamenda, who exhorted members to embody the virtues of their Patron Saint as evangelizers, lovers of peace, defenders of truth, promoters of brotherhood, and knights of Christ. The Archbishop exhorted members by emphasizing five key commitments for Samba members:
– Collaborators in Evangelization Serving where the Bishop cannot be present.
– Lovers of Peace — Emulating St. Francis Xavier and St. Francis of Assisi.
– Defenders of Truth — Standing firm in truth at all times.
– Promoters of Brotherhood — Inspired by Pope Francis’ Fratelli Tutti, fostering unity across creed, nation, and language.
– Knights of Christ — Courageously defending the faith in all circumstances.
The Chief Shepherd reminded members that these values must begin in their families and communities, extending wherever they find themselves. This Year’s Celebration saw Members appeared in their new Archdiocesan uniform, blessed by the Archbishop, symbolizing love and identity.
The newly re-dedicated and renovated Cathedral provided a vibrant setting for the feast. Over 10 parishes participated, each offering a goat during the special offertory. Liturgical music was beautifully rendered by the Regina Pacis Choir of Ndamukong Bayelle Deanery.
In the second part of the day, Samba members convened at the Cathedral Boukaro Hall to review their activities over the past year. Coordinator Lawrence Awineh highlighted:
– Growth in the number of communicants.
– Celebration of the sacrament of matrimony.
– Expansion of Samba Groups into four additional parishes.
– Financial and material support to parish projects across the Archdiocese. Despite these achievements, the group mourned the loss of some members during the year.
The Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele Lafrique, himself a Samba member, attended the celebration. He accepted the commitment to host the Samba Group in early 2026 for a spiritual journey to the Our Lady of Mercy Shrine, Babadjou, Diocese of Bafoussam. The Archbishop reiterated that every Samba member is, by virtue of their membership, a catechist and must live as exemplary followers of St. Francis Xavier. The day concluded with photography, dance, Samba music, and a solidarity meal featuring the traditional Samba drink. The Archdiocesan Chaplain, Fr. Ignatius Beriliy, and the Vicar for the Laity, Monsignor. Michael Kintang, expressed gratitude for the group’s contributions. Msgr. Kintang, in good health this year, joined the celebration fully, contrasting with last year’s health challenge. The Feast Day also served as an open invitation for more Christians to join the Samba Group, regardless of tribe, strengthening the spirit of unity, peace, love and evangelization in the Archdiocese and beyond.
