Dr. Mike Spradlin’s Week in Cameroon: Courage, Culture, and the Gospel
In late November 2024, Dr. Michael Spradlin, President of Mid-America Seminary and College, led a team from Mid-America on a missions trip to Cameroon, Africa. Each day, he reported on the day’s highlights in a blog article. Below is a synopsis of these stories along with links to each of his original daily blog posts with photos.
Our journey to Cameroon was a tapestry of experiences—some humorous, others challenging, but all deeply meaningful. From the moment we landed in Doula, the River of Prawns, to the final night of the Peace Rally in Bamenda, each day revealed the beauty, complexity, and resilience of this incredible country and its people.
Day 1: First Steps in Cameroon
The adventure began with a whirlwind journey to Doula, navigating lost luggage, visa delays, and even a Coke Zero mishap on the plane. Despite the bumps in the road, including a six-hour drive to Bafoussam, our spirits remained high as we embarked on this mission with a smaller-than-expected team. Along the way, the rich history of Cameroon—once a German colony divided between French and British control—was a backdrop to our anticipation.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 1
Day 2: Linguistic Riches in Bamenda
Staying at the Pessi Hotel in Bafoussam, memories of my last trip resurfaced, including a comedic misstep with French. As we traveled to Bamenda, we marveled at the region’s linguistic diversity, with over 280 languages coexisting alongside French, English, and Pigeon. Phrases from the Limbum language, like “Have you seen the light?” for “Good morning,” highlighted the poetic beauty of local dialects, sparking both curiosity and humility.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 2
Day 3: the Team reunites
Delayed by issues with visas, two of our team’s members finally rejoined the group in the beautiful city of Bamenda. We continued to learn more about the languages of the region.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 3
Day 4: Football, Fellowship, and New Words
Bamenda’s vibrancy came alive as we explored Bambili, home to the University of Bamenda. Watching a dusty football match demonstrated the players’ adaptability and skill despite the uneven pitch. The city’s linguistic depth deepened our appreciation for Cameroon’s cultural mosaic, as we stumbled through local greetings and embraced the warmth of the people. Opportunities to share the Gospel abounded, and the joy of fellowship left a lasting impression.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 4
Day 5: Peace Rally Beginnings
The first night of the Peace Rally was electric, a powerful mix of worship, celebration, and proclamation of the Gospel. Meeting Michel, who speaks Cherambo, introduced us to dynamic greetings like “Apo ne” (hello to peers) and “Cherave” (hello to elders). The rally’s music and dancing reminded me of a cherished experience in Indonesia, where unexpected cultural exchanges left me both speechless and deeply moved.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 5
Day 6: Food, Fellowship, and Faith
Cameroon’s culinary diversity delighted us, from spaghetti breakfasts to puff puff treats. As we walked Bamenda’s bustling streets, we sampled bitter leaf spinach, calf liver, and plantains, bracing ourselves for a “mystery dish” that turned out to be familiar fufu, a corn-based staple. That evening, the rally continued with incredible music and dancing, leaving me wishing for more trombones but marveling at the talent and passion on display.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 6
Day 7: Cultural Celebration and “The Incident”
The Peace Rally reached new heights with a showcase of traditional costumes representing Cameroon’s 10 regions. Though the Fon’s appearance turned out to be a reenactment, the Yemba people brought genuine passion with their drums, dances, and vibrant attire. Preaching from the Book of Revelation under the night sky was unforgettable—until the sound of gunfire shattered the moment.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from Day 7
FINAL DAYS: A Night to Remember
With courage and calm, our team and local pastors guided the crowd to safety, prayed with them, and ultimately finished the service, witnessing incredible bravery and faith. As the gunfire subsided, the resilience of the Cameroonian people shone brightly. Though shaken, many responded to the Gospel, making decisions for Christ amidst the chaos. The night’s events bonded us as a team, and Pastor E’s heartfelt message reminded us of the eternal impact of this mission. His words, reflecting on courage and commitment to the Gospel, captured the essence of our time in Cameroon: a profound privilege to serve among such steadfast and faithful people.
Read Dr. Spradlin’s full blog article from the final days
This week in Cameroon was a journey of contrasts: joy and sorrow, peace and conflict, cultural discovery and spiritual growth. The challenges we faced underscored the strength of the Cameroonian people and the unwavering power of the Gospel. Though I leave with memories I’ll carry forever, I’m humbled to know they remain, courageously living their faith in the face of daily struggles. Truly, we are bonded by something far greater than ourselves—a shared commitment to proclaiming Christ’s love.