Bamenda, North West Region – April 20, 2022, Report by the Communication Department of the JF Mubang Foundation
A spirit of celebration and deep gratitude filled the St. Joseph’s Centenary Piazza in Big Mankon on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, as His Grace Andrew Fuanya Nkea, Archbishop of Bamenda, conferred priestly ordination on 19 new priests in a solemn and uplifting Pontifical Holy Mass.
The newly ordained included:
- 17 priests for the Archdiocese of Bamenda
- 1 priest for the Archdiocese of Garoua
- 1 priest for the Congregation of the Capuchin Friars in Bamenda
Among the 17 priests ordained for the local Archdiocese was Rev. Fr. Peter Chefor, an ex-student of St. Frederick Comprehensive High School Mubang — a moment that brought special pride to the Mubang family and the entire school community.
Mr. Joseph Mubang and his younger brother Mr. Michael Mubang (Proprietor of St. Frederick Comprehensive High School and PCC Mubang) were present among the large congregation to witness the historic ordination. Their attendance carried added significance given the personal connection to one of the ordinands.
Following the Mass, a large group of ex-students from the PCC Mubang Home Branch, together with current students of St. Frederick Comprehensive High School, gathered at the school premises and the Mubang Family House in Big Mankon for a solidarity meal generously hosted by Mr. Joseph Mubang.
During the gathering, Mr. Joseph Mubang joined the ex-students in presenting a cash envelope to the newly ordained Rev. Fr. Peter Chefor as a gesture of love, support, and pride.
In warm remarks shared with the gathering, both brothers congratulated Fr. Peter Chefor, describing him as “a famous product of St. Frederick Comprehensive High School.” They proudly recalled the school’s long record of forming individuals called to consecrated life and leadership, noting that St. Frederick has previously produced:
- Several Religious Sisters
- His Lordship Michael Bibi, current Bishop of the Diocese of Buea
- Numerous other distinguished professionals and leaders serving in Cameroon and abroad
“This is not just a day of joy for Fr. Peter and his family,” Mr. Joseph Mubang said. “It is a day of joy for the entire school community — past and present — because it shows that the seeds planted through Catholic education can bear fruit in the vineyard of the Lord for many years to come.”
The ordination Mass drew a large and diverse crowd, reflecting the importance of priestly vocations in the life of the Church in the North West Region. The presence of alumni, students, families, religious, clergy, and lay faithful created a powerful witness to the continuity of faith formation and the shared responsibility of nurturing vocations.
Archbishop Nkea, in his homily, reminded the newly ordained priests — and the entire assembly — of the call to serve with humility, courage, and total dedication to Christ and His people, especially in challenging times.
For the Mubang family and the St. Frederick school community, the day carried a double celebration: gratitude for the gift of 19 new priests to the Church, and special thanksgiving for one of their own who answered that call.
The events of April 20, 2022, once again highlighted the deep interconnection between Catholic education, family values, and the mission of the Church — and offered a vivid reminder that when young people are well-formed in faith and character, they can become instruments of grace and hope for generations.
