At close of National Youth Days in Bertoua: Apostolic Nuncio urges young Catholics to be steadfast amid challenges.

The Minister of Territorial Administration, Atanga Nji, represented the Head of State, Paul Biya, at the event. Also present were the Minister of the Public Service and Administrative Reform, Joseph Le; the Governor of the East Region, Gregoire Mvongo.

The event brought together thousands of Catholic faithful, more than 3,500 young people from across the country, Bishops, priests, religious men and women, and administrative authorities. It marked the culmination of a week-long spiritual gathering of Catholic youth.

The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Bettencourt, in his opening remark, conveyed the greetings and Apostolic Blessing of Pope Leo XIV to the faithful.

Speaking on the theme of the 2026 National Youth Days: “Take courage, For I have overcome the world”, drawn from John 16:33, he encouraged young Catholics to remain courageous in the face of contemporary challenges and to place their trust in Christ.

Drawing inspiration from the Gospel and the biblical example of King Solomon, the clergy reminded the youth that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in wisdom and a heart open to God’s will.

He urged them to seek Jesus Christ, whom he described as the “true treasure,” and to allow Him to guide their choices and transform their lives.

“Take courage because Christ has overcome the world,” he told the congregation, encouraging the young people to make these words a source of strength in moments of uncertainty and difficulty.

Archbishop Bettencourt also expressed gratitude to President Paul Biya, represented by Minister Atanga Nji, as well as to government officials and Church leaders for creating favourable conditions that enable young Christians to deepen their faith and contribute positively to society. 

Youth as future of nation, present of Church 

He emphasised that young people are both the future of the nation and the present of the Church, stressing that a youthful Church remains a vibrant and living Church.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Bertoua, Archbishop Joseph Atanga, warmly received the minister and other guests, describing the participation of the state as a strong symbol of the cordial and constructive collaboration that exists between the Church and public institutions in Cameroon.

“The presence of the civil administration alongside the Church and the youth is a powerful sign of harmony and cooperation in the promotion of faith, peace, and service,” Archbishop Atanga said.

The closing ceremony also featured remarks from Bishop Philippe Alain Mbarga of Ebolowa, Vice President of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon, who delivered a message on behalf of the Conference President, Archbishop Andrew Nkea of Bamenda. 

He enjoined young people to use social media responsibly and transform digital platforms into spaces for evangelisation, ethical engagement, and the promotion of Gospel values.

Throughout the week, participants from the five ecclesiastical provinces of Cameroon: Yaounde, Douala, Bamenda, Bertoua and Garoua, engaged in discussions and workshops on Christian vocation, family and socio-cultural life, responsible citizenship, and the challenges facing youth in an increasingly complex world. 

Special attention was also given to issues affecting the faith of young people and their role in promoting peace, social cohesion, and moral values.

Youth, at the close of the activity, expressed appreciation to both the Church and authorities for nurturing an atmosphere of communion and national unity. 

Through their representatives, they highlighted the significance of gathering with fellow young Catholics from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds while strengthening their commitment to Christian values.

For many participants, the 2026 edition of the National Youth Days represented more than a religious gathering. To them, it offered opportunities for cultural exchange, spiritual renewal and the discovery of the country’s rich diversity. 

Youth delegations from across the country shared experiences, celebrated their faith and forged bonds that transcended regional and linguistic differences.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3862 of Wednesday July 29, 2026