The Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON), St. Mary’s Parish Karu, Abuja, has successfully concluded its 2026 Youth Week, a vibrant week-long celebration of faith, leadership, empowerment, and fellowship that brought together young Catholics under the theme: “Take Courage, I Have Overcome the World!” (John 16:33).
Held from June 14 to June 21, 2026, the annual Youth Week featured a rich blend of spiritual formation, leadership development, skills empowerment, intellectual engagement, recreation, and communal worship aimed at strengthening the faith and capacity of young people in the Church and society.
The week commenced with an Old School/Awareness Day, followed by a series of impactful activities including a Spiritual Talk, Leadership Seminar, Training and Empowerment Session, General Knowledge Conversation and Question-and-Answer Forum, as well as a deeply reflective Praise, Worship and Eucharistic Adoration Night. Participants also enjoyed a Sports and Movie Night, fostering friendship and unity among parish youths.
The celebrations culminated on Sunday, June 21, with a colorful Thanksgiving Mass attended by patrons of CYON in the parish, parishioners, families, and invited guests. Youths appeared in vibrant cultural attire, showcasing Nigeria’s rich heritage and diversity. In a remarkable demonstration of responsibility and commitment, CYON members coordinated all liturgical duties, serving as altar servers, choir members, lectors, and church wardens throughout the Mass.
Speaking during the thanksgiving ceremony, CYON President, Emmanuel Onyemeziri, encouraged parents to actively support and allow their children to participate in CYON activities.
According to him, the organisation plays a crucial role in nurturing young people spiritually, morally, and socially while developing future leaders for both the Church and society.
“CYON is more than just a youth association; it is a platform where young people grow in faith, develop leadership skills, build character, and become responsible citizens. We encourage parents to support their children in becoming active members so they can benefit from these opportunities,” he stated.
The Parish Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Leopold Shibu Ngek, MSP, commended the youths for their dedication, enthusiasm, and successful coordination of the week-long programme, noting that the future of the Church remains bright when young people are empowered and guided in faith.
Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Precious Agho, expressed gratitude to the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Alexander Titus Imoh, MSP, the chaplain, Rev. Fr. Leopold Shibu Ngek, MSP, the patrons, the parishioners, benefactors, and all participants whose support contributed to the success of the event.
The 2026 Youth Week further reaffirmed CYON St. Mary’s Karu’s commitment to raising a generation of courageous, faith-filled, and socially responsible young Catholics prepared to overcome challenges and positively transform society.
