Metropolitan Cathedral set for rededication after major renovations this Friday November 14, 2025
The Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, His Excellency Avelino Benttercourt, has begun a significant three-day pastoral visit to the Archdiocese of Bamenda, marked by colour, culture, and deep spiritual symbolism.
The visit began on Thursday, November 13, 2025, with a warm and vibrant welcome at the St. Joseph Metropolitan Cathedral in Big Mankon. A circulating video from the event shows the Nuncio dressed proudly in North West traditional regalia—Toghu—as he joined the Christian community in an energetic Samba dance. The moment has drawn admiration across social media, symbolising unity between the Church’s leadership and the local cultural values of the North West Region.
H.E. Benttercourt was received by the Archbishop of Bamenda, His Lordship Andrew Nkea Fuanya, alongside priests, religious, and hundreds of Christians who gathered to welcome the Vatican diplomat. The atmosphere was one of joy, cultural celebration, and spiritual anticipation, as the faithful expressed gratitude for the visit of the Pope’s representative during a period marked by regional challenges and a renewed call for peace.
A highlight of the Nuncio’s pastoral mission will be the rededication of the Metropolitan Cathedral this Friday November 14,2025, which has recently undergone significant renovation works. The cathedral—an emblem of faith for the Archdiocese—has been refreshed to continue serving as the spiritual home for thousands of worshippers.
During his stay, H.E. Benttercourt is expected to meet with clergy, religious leaders, lay associations, and communities across the archdiocese. His discussions are anticipated to focus on strengthening pastoral work, promoting peace and reconciliation, and reinforcing the Church’s mission in the North West Region.
The Apostolic Nuncio’s visit is seen as a strong gesture of solidarity from the Holy See, renewing hope among Christians and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to walking alongside the people of the region.
The pastoral visit continues until Saturday, November 15, 2025, with more liturgical celebrations, meetings, and the highly anticipated cathedral rededication ceremony.
