The Diocese of Kumbo continues to hold young
people in high esteem, following the integral position they hold in the church. To maintain this long standing tradition, a team coordinated by Rev. Sr. Rita of the St. Ann Community took time off during the 2007/2008 Academic Year to go round the various colleges in Kumbo and prepare students for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Photo: Mgr George Nkuo and the students
The solemn confirmation ceremony was celebrated on May 3, 2008, the feast of the apostles- Philip and James. Preaching on the occasion at the St. Theresa's Cathedral in Kumbo, Bishop George Nkuo exhorted the confirmed students to emulate the example of the apostles, who through their preaching and teaching, made it possible for other Christians to experience Christ.
Thanking the students for choosing the Catholic Faith, the prelate prayed that the students should be able to live their Christian lives with conviction. Though receiving confirmation will not prevent them from sinning, the Bishop reminded them that Christ will from hence expect them to recognize him as their friend, the way, the truth and the light. It was in this light that the bishop challenged these students to adopt a different way of life in their different schools.
Though the receipt of Confirmation would mean strengthening and solidifying them in Christ Jesus, the prelate assured them of difficult moment to come as they fulfill their Christian obligations. It was on this note that Bishop George warned them against being easily discouraged. Other shortcomings, he noted, would be the fear to accept the truth and stand out different, accepting temptation and allowing themselves to be carried away by pride. By going around different schools to meet and prepare students for the sacrament, Sr. Rita explained, shows the commitment, care and concern the church holds for young people.
Many of these students have always missed the preparatory doctrine classes back in their villages because they are carried out when they are busy in school. Going to meet them in their schools therefore, give them the privilege to be treated equally as others in the church. Present at this ceremony were the principals of GBHS Kumbo, GHS Kikiakom, City College Kumbo, and GSS Shisong, who accompanied their students to be confirmed. Rev. Fr. Peter Watson and Edwin Kinga Boye concelebrated at the Mass.