Cameroon: The Catholic Church in West and Central Africa is confronting one of its most painful moments in recent years as priests and hundreds of students from a Church-run school remain in captivity. Church leaders say the growing attacks on parishes, schools and clergy are threatening the heart of their mission and placing entire communities at risk.

In Cameroon, the Archdiocese of Bamenda is on the brink of shutting down parishes after the kidnapping of parish priest Father John Berinyuy Tatah and his assistant on November 15. The abductions took place in the country’s conflict-affected northwest region, where Church personnel have increasingly become targets.

Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya has issued a strong warning: if Father John is not released soon, churches, Catholic schools and pastoral centres in the deanery will close, and priests will be moved out for their safety. The archbishop said the Church cannot continue its ministry under constant threat, especially when priests are being kidnapped while fulfilling their duties.

Church leaders describe the situation as a profound spiritual and pastoral wound. Parishioners are unable to attend Mass with a sense of peace, sacraments are disrupted and pastoral workers live with fear. The archdiocese has called for prayer and unity as it continues efforts to secure the priest’s release.

At the same time, the Catholic Church in Nigeria is enduring a heavy blow. A Catholic boarding school belonging to the Diocese of Kontagora was stormed by armed men on November 21, resulting in the mass abduction of students and staff. Around 315 people were taken, and although some children later escaped, more than 250 students and several teachers remain missing.

The diocese has been offering continuous spiritual support to grieving families, holding prayer vigils and calling on Catholics across the country to intercede for the safe return of the children. Church officials say the attack has deeply shaken their ability to provide education and pastoral care in rural communities.

Bishops in Nigeria have repeatedly appealed to authorities to protect Church-run institutions, saying schools and parishes must remain safe spaces where children can learn and families can worship without fear. They warn that the repeated attacks are weakening the Church’s presence in areas that depend heavily on its services.

Pope Leo has expressed exceptional concern for both crises. In his recent address, he prayed for the release of all those held captive and urged the international community to support efforts to defend the rights of Christian communities. He said schools and churches must be treated as “places of peace, hope and protection for the most vulnerable.”

Across both countries, Catholics are gathering in prayer, organising novenas and supporting families through parish networks. Yet the sorrow remains heavy. The Church fears that continued violence may force it to withdraw from some regions where its presence is most needed.

As the faithful wait for news of the captives, Church leaders say they are committed to their mission but cannot ignore the growing risks faced by clergy, teachers and children. They emphasise that protecting human life must now be a priority for governments, communities and international partners.