The Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buea in Cameroon, His Lordship Michael Bibi, has called on women and young girls across the diocese to cease seeking romantic relationships with Catholic priests, emphasizing that clerics are bound by a vow of celibacy and will not marry.
Speaking during a pastoral engagement on Wednesday, July 30, 2026, Bishop Bibi voiced deep concern and dissatisfaction over what he described as "unhealthy relationships" developing between some female parishioners and local clergy within the diocese.
According to a report by the Cameroon News Agency, the prelate expressed disappointment that some women continue to pursue priests romantically despite fully understanding the solemn commitments required by their religious vocation. Addressing the faithful directly, the Bishop made it clear that priests are permanently dedicated to serving God and the Church and cannot offer marriage or family life.
"Stop pursuing or running behind priests romantically. Priests will never marry you and cannot live with you as husbands," Bishop Bibi stated.
He advised single women seeking marriage to direct their romantic interest toward eligible single men within their communities and parish networks, noting that this would help maintain clear boundaries and allow priests to fulfill their spiritual duties without interference.
"There are many single young men available for marriage, pursue them instead," the Bishop advised.
Reiterating the importance of protecting the sanctity of the priesthood, Bishop Bibi urged the entire lay faithful to support their local clergy by respecting their vow of celibacy and allowing them to focus entirely on their pastoral mission.
"Leave priests free to carry out their sacred duties," the prelate concluded.
