In early December 2025, James Stileman made his first visit to the Diocese of Cameroon as Regional Relationship Manager for the Internal Province of West Africa. His journey, though short, offered deep insight into a diocese striving to serve its people with energy, creativity and Gospel hope.
Cameroon is not often on the radar when discussing Anglican mission in West Africa. However, this small diocese of 32 churches and 5,000 members is quietly laying foundations for future growth. The visit took place just after the diocesan synod. James was able to review the church’s 285-page report, a remarkable document full of statistics, mission strategies and ambitious plans. The leadership, under Bishop Thomas Dibo, is clear-eyed about the challenges ahead. They’re aiming to become “a competent, effective and productive church” rooted in the Word of God.
A key stop on the visit was Bishopscourt, the centre of diocesan life in Douala. Bishopscourt is more than an office, it’s the centre of the diocesan ministry. The building houses a vocational centre for women, a chapel, diocesan offices, a music ministry generating income, and space for theological training. However this vital space is threatened. Due to poor drainage and rising groundwater, significant water damage is worsening. Work is now needed to protect the building before the 2026 rainy season.
Even with these setbacks, the work goes on. Bishop Dibo runs pre-seminary training from Bishopscourt and clergy receive theological support through programmes like Timothy Leadership Training and Anglican Missions Africa. Two new churches have been planted since 2023 as a result. And the church is pushing forward in holistic mission with medical outreach, education, agriculture, and small enterprise development all play their part.
One memorable evening, James was asked to hand out certificates at a small, experimental carol service held in Bishopscourt’s open-plan ground floor. It was a picture of the church; a place where worship and welcome, mission and ministry go hand in hand. Next year, they hope to hold the service outside and open it to the wider community.
Challenges remain. Many churches lack Bibles. But the will to grow is evident. So is the desire to partner well. Half of the clergy are Nigerian by background, often sent from partner dioceses. There’s openness to learn, adapt, and reform.
The Diocese of Cameroon is a small diocese with a big heart. And it deserves our prayers, support, and respect. Please pray for Bishop Dibo and his team. Pray that the theological training would deepen and expand. And pray that the practical issues, like water ingress, won’t derail the Gospel work already bearing fruit.
