The Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, is in Bamenda for the historic rededication of St Joseph’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Big Mankon, a landmark event drawing thousands of Catholic faithful, clergy, and traditional authorities.
The ceremony marks the reopening of the cathedral after extensive renovations that have transformed the 1975 structure into a modern spiritual edifice with a seating capacity of about 4,000 worshippers. The upgrade features a new reinforced roofing system supported by 26 massive beams, refurbished interior spaces, and high-quality local materials, including granite from West Cameroon.
Presiding over the solemn liturgy, the Papal Nuncio described the rededication as a moment of renewal for the Church and the faithful, noting that the cathedral stands not only as a house of worship but as “a dwelling place of God among His people.” He linked the event to the universal Church’s theme of “Pilgrims of Hope,” calling on Christians to embrace peace, service, and reconciliation.
The Archbishop also acknowledged the difficult years faced by communities in the North West Region due to conflict, urging hope, healing, and unity as the cathedral reopens its doors.
The rededication ceremony brought together the Archbishop of Bamenda, clergy from across the ecclesiastical province, traditional rulers, lay associations, and Christians from all walks of life who turned out in celebration.
St Joseph’s Metropolitan Cathedral, newly renewed inside and out, is now poised to continue its role as the spiritual heart of the Archdiocese of Bamenda and a beacon of faith for generations to come.
