Presbyterian Church In Cameroon  
Diaspora Europe & The Gulf States Missionary Area

The Diaspora Europe Regional Convention Unites Christians in Joyful Celebration

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The Diaspora Europe Regional Convention, a much-anticipated event, took place in the heart of the German parish from July 28th to 30th, 2023 in Oberhausen.

 

The convention witnessed an influx of enthusiastic Christians of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) from various European regions, coming together to celebrate their shared culture, faith, and heritage. The convention was presided over by the esteemed coordinator, Rev. Dr. Amos Chewachong, whose leadership and vision have played a pivotal role in making this year's gathering a resounding success. The convention was not only an occasion for spiritual reflection but also an opportunity for attendees to forge stronger bonds within the PCC Christians diaspora Europe community.

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The event kicked off on Friday July 28 with the arrival of Christians from three parishes :  The Scandinavia, the Belgium and the German parishes.

 

This day saw general singing and dancing, the singing of all English choirs and the participation of the Sunday school and Young Presbyterians(YP) that presented memory verses. Throughout the event, the convention hosted a plethora of activities, catering to different age groups and interests. The Christian Women Fellowship (CWF) and Christian Men Fellowship (CMF) rally was the main activity of the Convention which began with exhibitions and the Rally Quizzes for both movements. The later part of the day witnessed the singing competition where the CWF and CMF of each congregation did combined singing. In all 12 congregations and one Prayer Cell participated. Conspicuously absent in this year’s convention was PC Stockholm in Sweden.

 

For the sports enthusiasts, there were several sporting activities that added a healthy dose of fun and excitement to the convention. Attendees took part in friendly competitions like Football, Basketball, Relay for women and the youths ,Egg race, Sack race showcasing their athletic skills and sportsmanship. These sporting events served as a perfect platform for individuals from different backgrounds to come together and enjoy the spirit of unity. 

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 One of the highlights of this year's convention was the inclusion of children's full participation. Recognizing the importance of involving the younger generation, the organizers arranged various activities and programs tailored to their interests, ensuring they felt connected and valued within the PCC Christian community in Europe. The presence of the Catholic Women Association (CWA)of Mulheim  was also notable and brought an enriching diversity to the convention. The CWA's participation added depth to the discussions and enriched the experience of all attendees by promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding.

 

The convention witnessed a series of inspiring speeches from esteemed personalities, including Rev. Dr. Amos Chewachong, the coordinator, who addressed the audience with words of wisdom and encouragement. Other dignitaries, such as the Presbytery chairman,Elder Ngoh Austin and the host congregation chairman, Elder Ojong Tabot also shared their thoughts and appreciation for the diaspora community's unity and faith-driven endeavours.

 

The Covention ended on Sunday the 30th of July with a Thanksgiving service, expressing gratitude for the unity and joy experienced during the convention. Furthermore, a fundraiser was organized during the service, aiming to support the work of the Diaspora Europe and The Gulf States Missionary Area. In his homily tilted ‘Who Do People Say I am?’ Who Do People Say You Are?, Rev.Dr.Amos Chewachong drawing inspiration from Mathew 16:13-21 said that if The Presbyterian Church in Cameroon(PCC) Diaspora Europe Christian Community is serious about helping to establish the PCC in Europe Diaspora lands then “Now is about time to lay aside bitterness and take up a helpful identity. That of a peacemaker”. He continued that to achieve this they will have to keep away insults , accusations , self-centredness and never cease from trusting God. The Diaspora Europe Regional Convention's success would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the organizing committee, volunteers, and the unwavering financial support of the entire Diaspora Congregations.

 

As the convention came to a close, attendees departed with cherished memories, renewed friendships, and a strengthened sense of unity and purpose. With each passing year, The Diaspora Europe Regional Convention continues to grow in significance and impact, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual nourishment for all who participate. As the PCC diaspora community looks forward to the next gathering, it is evident that these conventions play a crucial role in nurturing faith, fostering fellowship, and celebrating the rich diversity of the European diaspora PCC Christians.

 

The place and date of the next Convention will be announced soon but speculations have it that the next convention will be in Copenhagen -Denmark in The Nordic Region. 

 

By Titus Banyoh

Communication Officer