Wholesome Stewardship

His Eminence Christian Cardinal Tumi who was laid to rest yesterday Tuesday 20 April 2021 following his death on the 3rd of this eventful month is revered not only by his kindred of Kikakelaki, Bui Division, the North West Region, and Cameroon, but also the Christian fold elsewhere. His lifestyle as a man of God aware of the wholesome needs of compatriots, leaves us with much to learn. Wiyghansai Shaaghan, his native name says more about the societal ills he strived to redress, and fought well this battle.
Like Saints Paul, a lawyer and tent maker, Luke, a medical doctor and Mathew, a tax collector, Christian Cardinal Tumi stood tall in his service to the Christian church and socio-political challenges of life, besides his clerical obligations.
In his life time, this committed servant of God and patriotic kinsman, proved that those who believe that politics is a reserve for non-Christians, and African culture ungodly, are mistaken. For, in the absence of occultic attachments to tradition, nothing makes it unworthy of Christian worship. This explains why Pope John Paul II saw nothing wrong in harping on enculturation during his last visit to Africa.
By visiting the Nfuh House in Douala and accepting the title of Shufaay Kintam, (traditional authority of the cross) Cardinal Tumi portrayed the importance he attaches to our culture, and the need to use it for the boosting of love, unity and progress.
The Sawas of Douala in appreciation of this man of God’s concern for not only African culture, but also the political needs of our country, came out in their numbers to honour this departed servant of Dialogue and Peace. Their songs, dance, and speeches, said it all. What an honour to man whose life has left behind much to learn in a world, regrettably deprived of love, unity and peace!
Moslems as well as members of other religious groups were not indifferent in their appreciation of the stewardship of a prelate who was committed to genuine Christian practice, and the unity and peace of his country. During the Major National Dialogue, despite his adv...