Reverend Father Franklin Epie Nkede, Rector of Bertoua Cathedral and Episcopal Vicar for the Cathedral Zone, celebrated his 20th anniversary in the priesthood on Sunday, May 10, 2026 at Ave Maria Parish, Bangem.
As part of the celebration, he donated 1 million FCFA to Ave Maria Parish, Bangem, to support the purchase of church equipment.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Giles Ngwa, Vice Chancellor of Catholic University Bamenda, praised Fr. Epie for his dedication, commitment, and humility in 20 years of service to the Lord. He described him as a servant of God whose ministry has positively impacted many lives within and outside the Church. Fr. Ngwa urged Christians to love and serve God in faith and humility.
Rev. Fr. Roland Ewantoko Njume of Ave Maria Parish, Bangem, speaking on behalf of the Christians, thanked Fr. Epie for choosing their parish to celebrate his 20th anniversary. He congratulated him for 20 years of sacrificial service marked by commitment and devotion.
The Celebrant Speaks
In his words of appreciation, Fr. Epie thanked God for the grace, strength, and protection throughout his priestly journey.
“My heart is full of gratitude. Twenty years ago, God chose me and guided me. To God be the glory. I heartily thank all those who have accompanied me on this journey. Continue to pray for me to serve the Lord in humility and strength,” he said.
Fr. Epie also thanked his family, friends, and Christians who have supported him financially and morally over the years. “Your encouragement has greatly contributed to my success and perseverance in the priesthood,” he said.
He urged Christians to remain steadfast in faith, love, and support for one another, and encouraged those who feel called to the priesthood not to hesitate to answer the call.
Fr. Epie, who also serves as notary of the Diocese of Bertoua and a member of the College of Consultors, said he decided to return home for his 20th anniversary because of his love for his people. He noted that he also celebrated his 10th anniversary in Bangem.
Fr. Epie was born on 11 April 1974 to Late Nhon Epie Bobby Simon and Epie Margaret Dione. He was ordained a priest on 7 May 2006 in the Archdiocese of Bertoua, where he currently serves.
His ministry has taken him across Cameroon and abroad, including service in Yaounde.
Testimonies from Friends and Parishioners
Rev. Sr. Felis Ngang Petra, a Passionist Sister from Bertoua, said Fr. Epie has been a constant source of support. “He encourages me to always pray, be kind, loving, and forgiving. I pray that God continues to give him wisdom and bless him in all that he does,” she said.
Emmanuel Kiven, a close friend, praised Fr. Epie’s commitment to God’s work and his support to family and friends. “Each time he visits me in the United States, he always prays with my family. I am very grateful to him,” he said.
Ewane Pamela Emanga, Fr. Epie’s childhood friend and classmate, described the celebrant as a caring and interactive person who looks out for his people. “I will tell Father to keep being who he is, and to rely on God always,” she said.
Ashu Marceline from Etoudi Parish, Yaoundé, added that Fr. Epie has helped her spiritually over the last eight years by teaching her how to pray and trust God.
Clergy in Attendance
Also present at the ceremony were Fr. Giles Ngwa, Vice Chancellor of Catholic University Bamenda; Fr. Kameni Aime and Fr. Kizito Wung of Bertoua Archdiocese; Fr. Derick Ntanni of Major Seminary, Bachuo Ntia, Mamfe; Fr. Charles Bate of Our Lady of Grace, Courcel, Tombel; Fr. Stanley Awasume of St. John Paul II Parish, Barombi-Kang, Kumba; Fr. Eustace Nkeng of Ekok, Mamfe Archdiocese; and Fr. Joel Ejeh, Curate of Ave Maria Parish, Bangem.
By Ngoh Jude Larissa-Dian & Nuella Teneng
