HOLY FAMILY CATHEDRAL
Bertoua, the best place to be
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The Holy Family Cathedral stands as the vibrant heart of the Archdiocese of Bertoua, a testament to a rich history. Born on March 17, 1983, from the split of the Diocese of Doumé, it replaced the Christ the King parish church as the diocese's center. Nestled beside the former Christ the Saviour parish, this architectural gem began its journey on January 10, 1993, with Bishop Lambert Van Heygen's groundbreaking ceremony. Guided by the vision of Father Fulco Marie, it reached its pinnacle, consecrated and inaugurated on December 8, 1996.
Initially entrusted to the Saint John community, the cathedral's reins shifted to the capable hands of diocesan priests in July 2015. Overlooking the districts of Mokolo and Ndouan, among others, the Holy Family Cathedral oversees eight vibrant Living Ecclesial Communities.
The tale of Catholicism in Bertoua unfolds with the 1942 Nkolbikon mission, followed by the establishment of Christ the Saviour in 1961 and the subsequent growth of parishes. Today, Bertoua boasts 24 parishes, a seminary, a hospital, schools, and a university institute—a testament to the tireless work of the Catholic Church in the region.
The lineage of bishops, from Lambert Van Heygen to Roger Pirenne and Joseph Atanga, adds another layer to this captivating narrative, marking milestones in the spiritual journey of Bertoua.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS PLACE
The Holy Family Cathedral in Bertoua stands as the spiritual cornerstone of the archdiocese, weaving an indispensable tapestry into the fabric of our community. Its significance extends beyond the realms of worship, as it has been a catalyst for positive change. Notably, it has been instrumental in establishing a school catering to the unique needs of individuals requiring special care, such as the deaf, dumb, and visually impaired.
Moreover, the cathedral has been a beacon of compassion, giving rise to several orphanages that serve as sanctuaries for those in need. In this way, the Holy Family Cathedral not only nourishes the souls of its congregation but also reaches out, making a profound impact on the lives of the vulnerable and marginalized within our community.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
The Holy Family Cathedral in Bertoua isn't just a building; it's the very essence of an immersive faith experience for Catholic Christians.
It serves as the quintessential space where believers can wholeheartedly embrace and live out their faith. Beyond its sacred role, the cathedral stands as a unifying haven, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
It's a cherished meeting point where people from all walks of life come together, fostering a sense of community that transcends the boundaries of daily existence.
It serves as the quintessential space where believers can wholeheartedly embrace and live out their faith. Beyond its sacred role, the cathedral stands as a unifying haven, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
It's a cherished meeting point where people from all walks of life come together, fostering a sense of community that transcends the boundaries of daily existence.
SPECIAL TIPS
The architecture of the Cathedral is a striking fusion of bold modern design, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary elements to form a one-of-a-kind and awe-inspiring structure. The interior, marked by an elegant and monumental façade, boasts large stained glass windows that add a touch of grace and grandeur to the overall aesthetic. This cathedral stands not only as a place of worship but as a testament to the harmonious marriage of architectural styles, making it a visually captivating landmark in Bertoua.
