The Christian community of Mamfe is yet to comprehend the reason why Dieudonné Akawung Tazisong has pulled out from the ministerial priesthood. The priest who voluntarily laicized himself has held top positions in the Mamfe Diocese including Finance Administrator and Chancellor.
In a letter dated January 20th, 2023, addressed to the Christian community,
His Lordship Aloysius Abangalo, of Mamfe Diocese informs the Christian community that the man is no longer a priest. “Dieudonné Akawung Tazisong, priest of the Diocese of Mamfe, humbly requested from Pope Francis the dispensation from sacred celibacy from all other obligations connected with sacred ordination to the priesthood. In response, His Holiness Pope Francis through a Rescript of Dispensation, has graciously granted the request” part of the letter reads
“I wish to bring to your notice that Reverend Father Dieudonné Akawung Tazisong has been removed from the clerical state. Removal from the clerical state means that in accordance with canon law, Dieudonné Akawung is no longer incardinated in the Diocese of Mamfe and he remains excluded from the exercise of the sacred ministry anywhere, with the exception of those circumstances mentioned in canon 976, 986 and §2” The bishop indicated in the letter concerning the state of the priest.
Cameroon Infotrend reached out to some priests and Christians in position of authority to dig deep into the matter. All turned down the interview, stating that they are still in shock to comment on it.
In consonance with Canon Law, the laicized priest would no longer dress as a priest or function as a priest. He is not allowed to celebrate the sacraments, but he would be allowed to receive the sacraments. If he were to come across a person in danger of death, he would still have the power to forgive sins through sacramental absolution, and in such a case he would be allowed to do so.
Mr Tazisong Dieudonné Akawung
can be restored to holy orders by express rescript from the pope.
First time to hear a diocesan priest resigns from priest hood