Mission Magazine Autumn 2023

of my home country and the presence of the Catholic Church in Cameroon.
Cameroon, located in Central Africa on the shores of the Gulf of Guinea,
holds a profound place of importance within my heart. This diverse nation
is home to 240 ethnic groups, categorized into three main groups: the Bantus,
Semi-Bantus, and Sudanese. The population is divided in their language usage,
with 70% speaking French and 30% speaking English. Additionally, Spanish
and German are also spoken by many.
However, Cameroon currently faces numerous crises that threaten its social
fabric. Food and military insecurity loom large, especially due to internal
conflicts in the Southwest and Northwest regions, as well as the ongoing
war against the Islamic group Boko Haram in the North. The Cameroonian
constitution establishes the country as a secular state, with provisions
prohibiting religious harassment and ensuring freedom of religion and
worship. Although Islam is practiced alongside Christianity, it is the latter
that holds the dominant position, with 70% of the population identifying
as Christian. Of this Christian population, 38.4% are Roman Catholic, while
26.3% belong to Protestant denominations. Consequently, the Catholic Church
wields significant influence and maintains a strong presence throughout
various communities in the country.
With five ecclesiastical provinces and twenty-one dioceses, the Catholic
Church in Cameroon plays an active role in education and healthcare. It runs
numerous schools, colleges, high schools, universities, hospitals, clinics, and
health centers. These Catholic institutions spare no effort in contributing
to the education and well-being of the population, leaving an indelible
mark. Many of Cameroon’s current decision-makers, including the head
of state, have passed through minor seminaries run by diocesan priests or
religious missionaries. Although these leaders may not always meet the
expectations placed upon them, the Catholic Church has undeniably shaped
the education and training of the country’s elite. Furthermore, the Church is
extensively involved in social and charitable initiatives, actively participating
in implementing community development projects.
Yet, the work of evangelization in Cameroon is not solely the result of
the Catholic Church’s efforts but also a testament to the commitment and
missionary presence of various religious congregations. Each congregation
brings unique charisms and spiritualities that bear visible fruit in the growing
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