By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Adamu Tadze Mbiydzela, the President General of the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA), has urged Catholic Bishops in Cameroon to prioritize dialogue with local cultures and emphasize the importance of inculturation within the framework of synodality.
In an open letter addressed to the Bishops following the just ended 48th Annual Seminar of the Episcopal Conference of Cameroon, Mbiydzela expressed his concern that, that despite wide agitations from local cultural backgrounds in 2024, the bishops omitted the synodality of inculturation from their agenda during the annual seminar that took place recently in Buea.
Looking at the theme of the seminar “Living Synodality in Our Local Church,” Mbiydzela’s resonated with Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya of Bamenda’s assertion that synodality could enhance the development efforts of African governments. Mbiydzela emphasized that true synodality involves engaging in authentic dialogue that transcends the sacramental boundaries of the Church.
He however expressed satisfaction on the role of the Justice and Peace Commission, along with the Communication and Dialogue Commission as was tasked in the resolutions, in implementing synodality, particularly at the diocesan level.
He urged that the concerns surrounding inculturation be addressed effectively, especially in light of the growing discontent within local communities regarding the Roman Catholic Church’s approach, particularly in Cameroon’s grass fields.
“Given the pressing need for dialogue on inculturation, and recognizing the presence of an Inculturation Commission within the pastoral framework, it is vital for the Roman Catholic Church to reinvigorate its commitment to synodality through this commission,” Mbiydzela stated.
He stressed that this initiative should move beyond theoretical discussions to foster genuine engagement of dialogue with indigenous communities about the cultural elements essential to the inculturation process.
He expressed his hope that the bishops would heed the concerns articulated by various cultural groups and reopen meaningful dialogue with local cultures, which are grappling with the challenges of inculturation in their churches.
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