The month of November has been a busy month with prayers especially for our departed brothers and sisters. This tradition of the Church has been made more animated by the Friends of Mill Hill (FOMH) in Cameroon. Over the years the FOMH gather in November to pray together for departed Mill Hill Members, FOMH and family members. This deeply significant and symbolic Mass called the Baobab Mass had a special character this year as it was organized in clusters, grouping parishes that are closer in a region rather than centralizing it in Bamenda. Added to the baobab mass was a moment of input, recollection and sharing on the history and charism of the Mill Hill Missionaries. In this way, the spirituality of the FOMH has not only been established but most importantly it has been deepened and renewed.
On a special note, the celebration of the baobab masses has coincided with the visit of Jimmy Lindero, MHM, Secretary of the General council. Being the special guest of the FOMH he led the celebrations in Yaoundé and Mudeka. In his message to the members, he encouraged members to continue to share their faith and gifts with others especially those in need. Reflecting from his own personal life and experience he urged the members to continue to carry out simple acts of kindness and love and generosity because these change peoples’ lives.
Each of the celebrations also had a moment of gratitude for the many ways Friends of Mill Hill contribute to mission—through prayer, presence, encouragement, and practical support. Participants reflected on the history of the Mill Hill Missionaries and the enduring relevance of their core values: compassion, loving service, and a readiness to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable.
These moments have also allowed members to reconnect with one another, exchange experiences, and renew their sense of purpose. Many expressed how the spirit of mission is not limited to distant places but begins in daily life—through acts of kindness, attentive listening, and efforts to build peace and community. The testimonies highlighted the quiet but powerful influence Friends of Mill Hill have in their own parishes, families, and workplaces.
The gathering concluded with a shared commitment to carry the mission forward with renewed enthusiasm. As one participant noted, “We may not always be on the ground where the missionaries serve, but we walk with them. Our mission is lived in communion.” The communion also made practical at the end of the day in the sharing of a meal and the “cry die corn” (boiled maize and groundnuts eaten at funerals)
The event reaffirmed that the Friends of Mill Hill remain an integral part of the Mill Hill family. United in faith and purpose, they continue to embody the missionary spirit—bringing hope, compassion, and solidarity wherever they are.
As Innocent Wefon, MHM, continues to organize these gathering with his team there is a great sense of gratitude to Anthon N. Ndichia, MHM who worked tirelessly to lay the foundation and animation of the FOMH here in Cameroon. We remain confident that Joseph King, MHM will no doubt build on it and take it to another level.
Ignatius Nshing, MHM
