Background

Temple du Centenaire: A Testament to Faith and History

A historic church in Douala, commemorating 100 years of Christianity and the legacy of pioneering missionaries in Cameroon.

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The Temple du Centenaire, or Centenary Temple, stands as a significant landmark in Douala, Cameroon. Built in 1947, it commemorates the centennial of the first Christian church, Bethel, established in Douala in 1847. Affiliated with the Église Évangélique du Cameroun, it represents a vital piece of the city's religious and historical heritage.

A brief summary to Temple du Centenaire

  • Rue Pau, Douala, Akwa I, CM

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
  • Consider attending a service to experience the local religious culture.
  • Take time to admire the architecture, which blends modern and traditional styles.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Temple du Centenaire is located on Rue Pau in Akwa I, Douala, making it accessible from many points in the city center. From the La Nouvelle Liberté monument, walk east on Avenue de Gaulle, then turn left onto Rue Pau. The temple will be on your left. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While Douala doesn't have a formal public transit system, buses and shared taxis are available. From many parts of the city, you can take a bus or shared taxi heading towards Akwa. Ask to be dropped off near the Temple du Centenaire on Rue Pau. Bus fares typically range from 200-300 XAF. Negotiate the fare before you get in.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a common mode of transport in Douala. You can hail a taxi from most locations in the city. Ask the driver to take you to the Temple du Centenaire on Rue Pau, Akwa I. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs around 1500 XAF.

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Discover more about Temple du Centenaire

The Temple du Centenaire is more than just a place of worship; it's a symbol of the Christian faith's deep roots in Cameroon. Constructed in 1947, the temple marked a century since the establishment of the first Bethel church in Douala by Reverend Alfred Saker in 1847. This historic church is linked to the Église Évangélique du Cameroun. The temple's origins trace back to the pioneering efforts of missionaries like Joseph Merrick and Jackson Fuller, who arrived from Jamaica in 1843 under the Baptist Missionary Society of London. These missionaries significantly impacted the region, promoting autonomy and laying the foundation for future religious developments. Reverend Alfred Saker, who arrived later, further solidified the Protestant mission by building the first Bethel and school in Cameroon. The Temple du Centenaire stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these early missionaries and the growth of Christianity in Cameroon. Its architecture reflects a blend of modern and traditional elements. Today, it remains an active and important religious site in Douala, welcoming visitors and worshippers alike.

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