By PJ Usanga
At the 38th Archdiocesan Youth Day, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, described the theme “Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be wary,” from Isaiah 40:31, as a beacon of hope amid national and personal struggles. Speaking at the event organized by the Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria (CYON) at Chrisland College, Lagos, he admonished that like the Israelites, the theme is a message from God to the Nigerian youths at this their most challenging time.
โJust like the Israelites whose condition were very dire such that they were beginning to lose hope in God, many are losing hope ina bright future, many even in our time are beginning to question the need for praying. But today, God has given Nigerian youths a message at this time.”
Archbishop Martins further critiqued the current political landscape, which he argued limits opportunities for young people, and urged leaders to make genuine sacrifices to alleviate hardship. He called for a collective effort to combat poverty and despair, advocating for reforms in governance to better address the needs of the underprivileged.
Despite the challenges, the Prelate assured the young people that the divine promises of hope and renewal would prevail. He encouraged the youths to maintain their faith and drive for positive change. He emphasized the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and rejecting influences contrary to Godโs teachings, and encouraged them to deepen their commitment to God and their role in nurturing youth ministries across the Archdiocese.
Explaining the CYONโs motto and anthem, the Archbishop reminded the youths that they belong to God and should stay focused on divine purpose, even in challenging times.
“We are assured by our faith and our hope that the Lord will indeed arise and shine. That the Lord will shine the light of His mercy and inspiration to overcome all the short falls we find in our individual lives, in our country and in our world.”
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