Help for the Training of Novices in the Central African Republic and Cameroon

Even as a child, Jean Thierry Ebogo had nurtured a secret dream – to be like Jesus, and to do so by becoming a priest. In 2003, he finally entered the Carmelite monastery of Nkoabang in Cameroon. He longed to follow the “Little Way” of Saint Therese of Lisieux, the way of holiness and perfect childlike trust in God’s mercy. This is why he added “of the Child Jesus and of the Passion” to his chosen religious name.

But not long after entering the monastery, he was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in his right knee. His leg had to be amputated, and he underwent a course of chemotherapy, which did not have the desired effect. Nevertheless, he endured his intense suffering with exceptional courage and joy, leaving even the doctors astounded. His only concern was that he might never become a priest. “I only wish to be healed so that I can become a priest,” he said. On December 8th, 2005, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, he received permission to take his final vows early. One month later, on January 5th, 2006, he passed away at just 24 years old. But while his desire to become a priest was unfulfilled, the holiness of his life and death continues to move the hearts of countless people. Thousands came to his funeral, and the cause of his beatification is now proceeding. 

Before his death, Jean-Thierry promised to implore from heaven a “downpour of priestly and religious vocations” for the Carmelite family in Africa – and today, it looks like he has kept his word. In his own home country of Cameroon and in the neighboring Central African Republic, the Discalced Carmelites are celebrating a wealth of new vocations, with 42 young men currently in various stages of their formation. 33 of them are from the Central African Republic, and a further nine are from Cameroon. 

The Carmelite Friars in these two countries are working together in the formation of these young novices. The theology center is in Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, and they pursue their philosophical studies in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic. There are close links between them, and the young Friars live and study together in different Carmelite houses. 

But of course, these vocations are also a heavy financial burden on the Carmelite Order. The Central African Republic is one of the poorest countries in the world today, and in Cameroon, too, the Church faces all kinds of challenges. We have promised a total of $28,578.90 to support their formation. Will you join us in helping them?

Code: 199-04-79