Bamenda Archdiocese Gifts Pope Leo XIV With Traditional Stool

By Njong Shey

Pilgrims from the Bamenda Archdiocese, led by His Grace Archbishop Andrew Nkea, presented Pope Leo XIV with a wooden traditional chair during a General Audience held at St Peter’s Square in Rome on Wednesday.

Dressed in Toghu regalia, a cultural and traditional attire from the North West Region of Cameroon, the pilgrims were seen dancing and singing church songs in Pidgin English at the square before their meeting with the Pope.

At the forefront was Archbishop Andrew Nkea, leading the group.

This marked the first public meeting between Cameroonian pilgrims and Pope Leo XIV, who was elected on May 8, 2025, as the first American Pope.

The Bamenda Diocese captured the spotlight after the Pope’s special acknowledgment of their presence at St Peter’s Square.

In a statement released afterward, the Archdiocese described the encounter as a “heartwarming display of spiritual connection,” highlighting Pope Leo XIV’s greeting to the English-speaking pilgrims gathered for the General Audience.

The Pope extended a special welcome to the devoted group from Cameroon.

The over 50 pilgrims from the Bamenda Archdiocese are currently on a pilgrimage to Rome under the spiritual guidance of Archbishop Andrew Nkea.

General Audience

The General Audience is a cherished tradition in the Catholic Church, offering pilgrims a chance to come together to receive spiritual guidance and inspiration from the Pope.

“The Cameroonian pilgrims’ visit to Rome is a testament to their devotion and faith, and their participation in the General Audience was a highlight of their trip,” the Archdiocese said.

“As they stood before the Pope, they were reminded of the importance of faith, hope, and charity in their lives, and were encouraged to continue spreading the message of love and compassion to those around them,” it added.

For the Archdiocese, this pilgrimage to Rome serves as a shining example of the enduring power of faith and the significance of spiritual community.

“The pilgrims’ journey is a reminder that despite the challenges and complexities of modern life, people continue to seek meaning and purpose through spiritual practices and devotion,” the statement noted.

It added, “The Pope’s greeting to the English-speaking pilgrims, particularly those from Cameroon, is a powerful reminder of the Catholic Church’s commitment to fostering spiritual growth and development among its faithful.”