The first-ever African, Cameroonian- born Bishop in the USA, His Lordship Jerome Feudjio was received in audience by the SG of the Central Committee of the CPDM on December 8, 2021.
A very convivial atmosphere reigned in the accommodating chamber used by Jean Nkuété to receive guests. The Secretary General’s delight was quite visible as throughout Bishop Jerome Feudjio’s stay, he wore a smile that spoke volumes of the admiration he had for the prelate, who had put Cameroon on a whole new diplomatic pedestal. Appointed by Pope Francis on March 2, 2021 as bishop of St Thomas diocese, Virgin Islands, Msgr Jerome Feudjio is the first-ever African bishop in the USA. The 55-year old native of Dschang in the West region of Cameroon had honoured the invitation of one he considered a father, going by the rapprochement that was done by both men during the short but rich visit.
The SG of the Central Committee of the CPDM seized the opportunity to enlighten his guest on the functioning of the ruling party, presenting its structures from the grassroots to the top. Describing the Party as the peace arm of the president of the republic, he stressed that its role included accompanying those in charge of security, ensuring they did not fail in their duties. He made the bishop understand that the CPDM is working relentlessly to promote peace in the country and with the crisis in the North West and South West, the Party’s endeavours towards a return to normalcy in these regions cannot be undermined.
Accompanied to the meeting by Father Louis Kemayo, his Lordship Jerome Feudjio recounted how surprised he had been after receiving several calls following his appointment, as it dawned on him that that he had made history. To him, the best way to thank God was to come back to his cherished homeland to share his joy with his people. As a proud Cameroonian, Bishop Jerome said he took great pleasure in promoting the destination and his new office would permit him to serve the fatherland in a different capacity. While promising to pray harder for his fatherland to flourish, he explained that the wellbeing of all Cameroonians was of the essence to him.
Thomas Fozain, Badel Ndanga Ndinga, Tagnin Tchidze André, members of the General Secretariat also present at the meeting opined that the prelate’s appointment was a mark of confidence on Cameroon that has distinguished itself in Africa as synodal country and a confirmation that Cameroonians could surf all spheres of hierarchy in the world. At the end of his visit, Jean Nkuété wished Bishop Jerome Godspeed in his new functions as the man of God in turn prayed for and blessed the SG and his entourage.
Claudette CHIN
