Bamenda was the scene of a ceremony filled with fervor and unity on March 19, 2026, on the occasion of the ordination of Bishop John Berinyuy Tatah, appointed auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese. The event took place at St. Joseph's Metropolitan Cathedral in Big Mankon, in the presence of thousands of faithful and prominent religious figures, as well as the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, personal representative of the Head of State, Paul Biya.
The pontifical mass was led by the Archbishop of Bamenda, Bishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya, in the presence of the apostolic nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, Bishop José Avelino Bettencourt. In his homily, Bishop Nkea called this ordination a "blessing" for the archdiocese, seeing it as a sign of the attention of the Holy Father, Leo XIV, who appointed Bishop Tatah on February 13, 2026. Solemn rites marked the official consecration of the new auxiliary bishop.
Born on April 18, 1975, in Buluf-Shisong, Bishop Tatah served as Rector of the Catholic University of Bamenda (CATUC) until his appointment. His journey is marked by his abduction in November 2025, followed by his release, making him a symbol of hope and resilience. Bishop Tatah was abducted while returning from the inauguration ceremony of the PAX University Institute of Ndop. The Archbishop of Bamenda, Andrew Nkea, strongly condemned this act and demanded the priest's swift release.
In his new role, Bishop Tatah will assist the Archbishop in the pastoral leadership of the diocese, with a central message of peace and reconciliation. Visibly moved, he expressed his gratitude and humility in the face of this mission, thanking Pope Leo XIV and Bishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya for their trust and support. This appointment is seen as a sign of renewal and hope for the Archdiocese of Bamenda.
