The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), Rt Rev Fonki Samuel Forba, has apologized to members of the Church for shortcomings registered during his 10-year tenure.
He delivered his address, filled with apologies and reflections on his legacy as Moderator, on Sunday, November 10, while Presbyterians celebrated 67 years of constitutional autonomy from the Basel Mission.
Rev Fonki called for unity in the Church during the event.
“A very busy mandate like this one would not go without ruffling feathers, hurting egos, undermining private ambitions, unmasking powers, and confronting the enemies of the Church,” he stated.
“Some of my administrative errors, my personal weaknesses might have caused some of you pain. I honestly owe you an unreserved apology in the spirit of Jesus Christ who advocates an unrestrained or unlimited forgiveness of seventy times seven. I am honestly sorry! Please forgive me.”
Elections Looming
Rt Rev Fonki Samuel steps down as PCC Moderator this November, after his two-term mandate of five years each ends.
The Church will hold elections this week to vote a new Moderator and Synod Clerk, an event which has triggered bitter exchanges in the Church, and accusations against the Moderator for attempting to handpick a successor.
In his address, Rev Fonki Samuel emphasized humility, reconciliation, and the importance of unity within the Church.
“I make this open appeal for forgiveness to build bridges for the way forward,” he added.
His message was a candid acknowledgment of the difficulties faced during his tenure and a testament to his commitment to fostering peace as he transitions from leadership.
PCC Moderator’s Legacy
Under his stewardship, the PCC witnessed substantial advancements, particularly in infrastructure and community engagement.
The construction and inauguration of the Presbyterian Diagnostic Urgent Care Hospital in Buea, which provides critical diagnostic services, marked a significant achievement.
“The quality of this infrastructure reflects the quality of our leadership vision and the extreme sacrifices of all genuine Presbyterians,” the Moderator noted.
Further, the Church built its head office in Buea, completed several worship centres and office buildings, signalling a period of modernization and growth.
The re-establishment of the Cameroon Christian University Institute (CCUI) demonstrated a renewed focus on education and preparing the next generation with practical skills and theological insight.
However, the path was not without trials. The Church navigated turbulent times, including the socio-political upheaval in the North West and South West regions, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rise of misinformation on social media.
“The Lord was on our side, and is still our defender and will continue to stand by us now and forever,” the Moderator stated, referencing Psalm 124:1 to highlight the Church’s survival through adversity.
A Call for Unity and Continued Progress
In his message, the Moderator expressed hope for a seamless transition of leadership and implored congregants to support the new leaders with prayers and dedication.
“Time has come for me to search or regain my life as a normal pastor to be assigned to work anywhere with honor,” he said.
Despite stepping down, he pledged continued spiritual support for the Church.
“I will continue to hold you in my prayers and ever be the friend I had been.”
He also emphasized the need for the PCC to carry forward the legacy of unity and service.
“I expect this Church to progress more than in my time. That would be the real indicator of our common and measured successes,” he remarked, signalling his confidence in the future leadership’s potential.
The Moderator’s parting words reflected deep faith in God’s assurance and providence.
He reminded the congregation that while leadership may change, the Church’s mission remains steadfast, driven by faith, resilience, and community spirit.
“God’s blessed assurance or promises are like stars; the darker the night, the brighter they shine. God is with us and that is all we need as we face the future.”
Celebrations echoed across the country with reflections and call to action, as well as the cutting of the anniversary cake.
Commemorative activities this year took place under the theme, “Blessed Assurance”.