Witnessing "Habemus Papam:" A Cameroonian Priest’s Personal Encounter With Pope Leo XIV

As Cameroon prepares for the historic first official visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, one local priest offers a unique, firsthand perspective on the man leading the global Catholic Church. Father Claude Menounga Ngono, a formator with the Notre Dame de l'Espérance Major Seminary in Bertoua, shares a bond with the Pontiff that few can claim. He was the only Cameroonian among the 32 deacons ordained to the priesthood by Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Basilica on June 27, 2025.
In an interview with Cameroon Tribune, Father Menounga - who also serves as a Professor of Sacred Scripture - described the Holy Father as "a Pastor after the Heart of Jesus Christ." His testimony provides a bridge between the Vatican and the local faithful, painting a portrait of a leader defined by simplicity, vast knowledge, and a profound commitment to global peace.

A Journey of Academic and Spiritual Excellence
Father Menounga’s path to the altar is a story of merit and dedication. Born in 1997 in Élig-Mfomo in Lekie Division of Centre Region, his journey took him from the primary schools of Yokadouma in Boumba-Ngoko Division of East Region to the top of the East Region during the 2015 Baccalaureate. His potential was recognized early by his superiors, leading him from the local seminaries in Batouri and Bertoua to the prestigious Pontifical Urban College in Rome.
During his six years in the "Eternal City," Menounga distinguished himself academically at the Pontifical Urbaniana University, earning his degrees with the highest honors (Summa Cum Laude). His specialized research into the Book of Job and conceptual metaphors showcased a deep intellectual rigor - a trait he now sees reflected in the Pope he serves.

The Transition From Francis To Leo XIV
The timing of Father Menounga’s ordination was marked by both sorrow and historical transition. Originally, Pope Francis - of venerable memory - had intended to ordain the deacons of the Urban College himself during the 2025 Jubilee of Priests. However, following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the responsibility fell to his successor.
"Newly elected, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV judged it right to bring to completion what his predecessor had so well begun," Father Menounga recalled. The election, which Menounga witnessed personally at St. Peter’s Square on May 8, 2025, signaled a new chapter for the Church. The subsequent ordination on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus remains, for him, the happiest day of his life, made even more special by the presence of his parents and over 8,000 brother priests.

The Character Of The New Pontiff
Having engaged with the Pope in both liturgical settings and private audiences, Father Menounga describes him as a man of immense capability. "He is a very simple man, very calm, with a very vast knowledge," the priest noted. As a polyglot with missionary experience across several continents, Pope Leo XIV is seen as uniquely equipped to navigate the comple...