Goodbye is the only phrase we know That makes us want to FAREWELL TO FR. HARRY PEETERS AFTER 53 YEARS OF MISSION IN CAMEROON
Bamenda, Cameroon — The Ecclesiastical Province of Bamenda gathered at Saint Thomas Aquinas’ Major Seminary in Bambui to celebrate a Thanksgiving Mass in honor of Rev. Fr. Harry Peeters, a missionary priest who has dedicated 53 years of his life to priestly formation in Cameroon.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Andrew Nkea, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bamenda, in the presence of bishops, priests, religious, seminarians, and lay faithful whose lives have been touched by the remarkable ministry of Fr. Peeters.
Fr. Harry Peeters first arrived in Cameroon in 1973. What began as a missionary assignment gradually unfolded into a lifelong vocation of service, commitment, and unwavering fidelity. For over five decades, he became a pillar of formation, particularly at Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary, where generations of priests were shaped under his guidance.
In his homily, Archbishop Nkea reflected profoundly on the mystery of time, drawing inspiration from the Book of Qoheleth: “There is a time for everything under the sun… a time to come and a time to go.” He noted that while goodbyes are often painful, they are an inevitable part of human existence. Yet, in the Christian journey, every departure is also a moment of mission and fulfillment.
The Archbishop paid tribute to Fr. Peeters’ extraordinary witness, describing him as “a symbol of personal dignity, a model of consistency, and a priest deeply rooted in prayer and duty.” He emphasized that Fr. Peeters’ influence goes far beyond the classroom, extending into the lives and ministries of countless priests and bishops formed under his care.
Recalling personal experiences, Archbishop Nkea highlighted the priest’s unique blend of discipline and humor. His famous corrective expression, “Ah, I caught you,” was remembered not merely as a form of discipline, but as a sign of attentive formation—firm, yet deeply human. Through such moments, Fr. Peeters instilled habits of punctuality, seriousness, and responsibility in those entrusted to him.
As a co-priest and formator, Fr. Peeters remained vigilant about the spiritual and communal life of young priests. His concern for silence, order, and discipline—even to the point of reporting disturbances—was not rigidity, but a commitment to creating an environment conducive to discernment and growth. His paternal yet fraternal approach left a lasting imprint on the community.
The Archbishop further testified to Fr. Peeters’ profound respect for ecclesiastical authority. Whether through personal meetings or written correspondence, he consistently demonstrated humility, obedience, and a genuine love for the Church. His approach to dialogue—firm yet respectful, honest yet obedient—stood as a model of priestly maturity.
A recurring theme throughout the celebration was a simple yet powerful principle often echoed by Fr. Peeters: “The work must be done, no matter who does it.” This ethos became a cornerstone of his formation philosophy. It called for responsibility beyond assigned roles, encouraging a culture of initiative, humility, and service within the community.
Reflecting on the Gospel call to perfection—“Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect”—the Archbishop clarified that such perfection is not about extraordinary achievements, but about fidelity in the present moment. In Fr. Peeters, the Church witnessed a man who pursued holiness through consistency: daily prayer, disciplined work, and unwavering commitment to duty.
His life, it was noted, was a testimony that greatness lies in the ordinary lived extraordinarily well. Whether in the chapel, the classroom, or the library, Fr. Peeters embodied a rhythm of life that spoke louder than words. His consistency became his message.
Beyond his personal witness, Fr. Peeters also made a lasting intellectual contribution to the Church in Cameroon. His sacrifice led to the establishment of a remarkable theological library, considered one of the finest in sub-Saharan Africa—an enduring legacy for future generations.
Gratitude was also extended to the Mill Hill Missionary Society for sending and allowing Fr. Peeters to remain in Cameroon for such an extended period. His long stay is seen not only as a missionary commitment but as a divine providence for the local Church.
While acknowledging the pain of parting, the Archbishop reminded the faithful that Christian goodbyes are never final. Fr. Peeters leaves behind not just memories, but a living legacy—in the priests he formed, the values he instilled, and the Church he helped to build.
The Archbishop entrusted Fr. Peeters to God with words echoing Saint Paul: “You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith.” He assured him that whether in this life or the next, the bonds forged through faith and service remain unbroken.
As Fr. Harry Peeters departs, he does not leave emptiness behind. Rather, he leaves a Church strengthened, a faith enriched, and a legacy that time cannot erase.
Indeed, his life stands as a powerful reminder that discipline, consistency, and commitment are not merely virtues—they are the quiet paths to holiness.
And for that, the Church in Bamenda remains eternally grateful.
Leonard, MHM
