It was a triple event today at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Wonya-Lyose. For the first time, his Lordship, Bishop Michael M. Bibi of the Diocese Buea made a Pastoral visit to the Christians here since the creation of this Parish. For the first time again, these Christians formally celebrated their Parish feast day, the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. And on this same day, they celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Catholic community in this vicinity.
This day was therefore one of intense communion between the Chief Shepherd of Buea Diocese and the Christians of Wonya-Lyose. The Bishop’s visit at this opportuned moment brought them comfort and encouragement. The colors of the day moved from a graceful joy at the Prelate’s arrival, through a solemn celebration of the Pontifical High Mass, to a thrilling festive afternoon with diverse religious, social and cultural activities.
During the Mass, 10 Christians received First Holy Communion while 71 were administered the sacrament of Confirmation. What a great sign of the growth of the faith in this Parish!
The Claretian Missionaries to whom this mission was recently entrusted by the Bishop had a great challenge preparing for this three-fold celebration. Working hand in hand with the Parish Pastoral Council, the Parish Priest, Fr. Donatien P. BESSALA. E., CMF., as well as the Curates, Fr. Arulanandam I., CMF and Fr. Abeng D. F. Bertin, CMF., braved the odds to coordinate the activities of the Christians for a distinguished success.
It is worth noting that today’s events marked the peak celebrations of two hectic weeks of Novena, Bible Quiz, Debates on the Church in our times, Traditional dances, Playbacks, Human investment, Tug of War, Sporting activities etc., all in a bid to eternalize the three-in-one feast. Hereafter, all ears shall be on the ground for echoes of the way forward in this Parish.