Fr. Afuh Lucas Yuh of Cameroon’s Catholic Archdiocese of Bamenda grew up in a devout Catholic family, spending much of his childhood in church, particularly attending Mass. These experiences brought him into contact with various religious figures, including both nuns and priests. However, he felt a stronger connection to the nuns, who were predominantly African, unlike the mostly white priests.
Among the nuns was a close relative whose way of life deeply inspired him as a young boy. “At a certain point, I thought I was going to become a reverend sister because they were the only people I saw,” Fr. Lucas says with a chuckle. “What did I admire about the reverend sisters? Their veils. So, I thought I was going to grow up and become one of them,” he recalls fondly.
This admiration sparked his desire to follow in their footsteps. However, as he grew, he came to understand the distinction between priests and nuns and discovered that there was a place for him in the priesthood as an African.
The Cameroonian cleric credits his family’s unwavering support for nurturing his vocation. He recalls a particularly challenging period during his formation when he considered abandoning his calling. His parents, especially, stood by him with encouragement and prayer.
“They gave me great support,” Fr. Lucas shares, adding, “They may not have been exceptional Christians, but at their level, they were committed. They never missed Mass or their personal prayers at home.”
An Irish St. Patrick’s Missionary priest was another significant influence in Fr. Lucas’ journey to priesthood. This mentor not only guided him through school but also introduced him to the concept of vocation camps and supported his discernment.
“I had no idea what a vocation camp was,” Fr. Lucas recalls. Reflecting on the missionary priest’s influence, he adds, “He guided and supported me every step of the way. He was instrumental in shaping my vocation journey.”
Reflecting on 20 years of priesthood, the participant in the 23rd Session of the St. John Paul II Sabbatical Program acknowledges the challenges he has faced but remains unwavering in his commitment. “If I had the chance to retrace my steps, I would gladly choose the priesthood again,” he affirms.
Over the past two decades, he has served in various roles within the Archdiocese of Bamenda. Recently, his Archbishop encouraged him to take a sabbatical, a decision Fr. Lucas views as a “thoughtful gift.”
“I’m returning to Cameroon as a changed person,” Fr. Lucas reflects on his four-month experience in the St. John Paul II Sabbatical Program, an initiative dedicated to the ongoing renewal and formation of priests and religious.
He describes the 11-year-old residential Program as “wonderful,” highlighting the profound impact of its expertly facilitated workshops and lectures. “The choice of lecturers and the topics deeply resonated with me,” he shares.
The most remarkable aspect of the program for Fr. Lucas has been the opportunity to deepen his self-awareness. Reflecting on this, he notes, “When you understand yourself better, you can connect with others more effectively. True outreach begins with knowing who you are.”
Inspired by the transformative impact of the Program, Fr. Lucas is determined to challenge the misconception that sabbatical programs are only for wayward priests—a belief he once shared. To spread awareness, he plans to share his testimony and distribute brochures to fellow priests, highlighting the Program’s true purpose and benefits.
“The general idea is that sabbaticals are like a kind of ‘panel beating’ for priests who are not performing well. But when I came here, I discovered a completely different experience,” he explains.
“It’s a program I would highly recommend. I’ve already prepared myself for that by taking flyers to share with other priests,” he concludes.
