Nigerians, parents in particular have been urged to pay keen attention to the wellbeing of the youths because of evidence of decadence and depravity in the society, so as to get a firm grip of the situation as it concerns young people to ensure that they have a good future. The charge was given by Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos while making remarks on the book entitled, “ldentity, Aims and Objectives: Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria”, authored by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Odunaiya, National Chaplain, Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria, CYON. Archbishop Martins noted that the unbridled display of wealth is fast moving the youths to pursue acquisition of wealth in a mindless way, not minding the moral imperatives of honesty and integrity. According to the Archbishop, CYON members are supposed to be a light to their peers, as he added that the situation of things makes their task difficult, but all hope is not lost. He said: “The spark of fire that we have in them now could be fanned into a flame. In order to achieve this, the identity, aims and objectives of the CYON must be distinctively spelt out for all to see so as to offer them clear guidance in their efforts to bear witness to Christ. “The youths need guidance in order to achieve their purpose in life, much like Samuel needed the guidance of Prophet Eli.
The CYON is one of the Church’s means of offering the needed guidance. This manual will help them navigate through their youthful days in the midst of the attractions in the world.” Encouraging the youths to use the book in a fruitful way, he noted that it will be useful to parents, youth enthusiasts and all who wish the youths to fulfil their ultimate goals in life. For his part, Fr. Odunaiya said that the youths need guidance and support as they navigate through the most challenging part of their development and seek to grow in their walk with Christ. He said: “Christ-like leaders are needed to serve the young members of the congregation and help them to reach their full potential; and this, essentially is the purpose of the CYON. However, the youths do not need to wait to be in the Church before studying Scriptures, worshipping, praying, engaging in missions, or even before taking up leadership roles. “Our Youths, like adults, are being equipped for both present and future ministries. So, let us all encourage every youth we know to associate with CYON and embrace the many opportunities it has to develop them both in life and in the Church.” Also speaking on the occasion, Rt. Rev. Msgr. John Aniagwu commended Fr. Odunaiya for writing the book, which he said is a compass that will guide the youths spiritually and other wise as they navigate through life and its challenge of the youth apostolate.
