By Sokoya Anthonia

The Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria, Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode had her Diocesan Convention between the 25^th and 28th of August 2022 at Christ the King Catholic College, Odolewu.

The young minds in Ijebu-Ode Diocese gathered after 4 years at CKCC for their  Biannual Convention  tagged “Mary Arose and Went with Haste.” The convention was attended by not less than 330 youths across the Diocese.

The delegates arrived at CKCC on Thursday, 25th of August 2022. After the accreditations, there were welcome formalities, camp orientations and team bonding. The Diocesan President, Miss Anthonia welcomed everyone and read the rules and regulations guiding the convention.

The opening Mass was held on Friday 26th of August, 2022 which was celebrated by Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina and concelebrated by the Diocesan Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Evaristus-Mary Oduntan, iloti Deanery Chaplain; Rev. Fr. Michael Ogunniyi, Iperu Deanery Chaplain; Rev Fr. Michael Elogie, Ijebu-Ode Deanery Chaplain; Rev. Fr. Kevin Okonkwo and the Chaplain of CKCC; Rev. Fr. Gabriel Olanrewaju. At that Mass, the Bishop appreciates the CYON members for their utmost cooperation in making the convention a reality as he was impressed with the turnout and urged all the youths to do better next time by increasing their numbers of delegates per parish. He further encourages the youths to imitate the role of Mary as she arose and went with haste when she heard the voice of the Lord. Hence as a Catholic Youth we must arise from our slumber. Immediately after the Mass, there were group photographs.

The first talk was presented by Rev. Fr. Joseph Ogunnupebi on the topic “STANDING UP IN THE GOOD; ROLE OF YOUTHS IN THE CHURCH”. The second and third talks were “YOUTH IN POLITICS ” and “EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE WITHIN COURTSHIP AND MARITAL LIFE” presented by Hon. Mary Adesanya and Mr. Moore Aregbesola respectively. Various activities were held and on Sunday 28th of August, 2022, the closing Mass started at 9:00am which was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Evaristus-Mary Oduntan and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Olanrewaju. The homilist Fr. Gabriel in his homily said the theme of the liturgy focused on humility. He further said we live in the age where arrogance and pride are being celebrated. These vices reflect in our day to day interaction with people. People look at the poor with a scornful eye just because they have what they don’t have, God destroys the proud hearted and raises the lowly. He prayed may God grant everyone the grace of Humility.

Immediately after the communion, thanksgiving was held which was led by the Diocesan Chaplain. The best team at the convention was presented a gift and also gift was presented to the two youths that answered Bishop’s questions courtesy of our dear Bishop. The Chaplain did the vote of thanks and declared 2022 Diocesan Convention closed.

For God and For Youth!!! Through Christ!!!