Aumen Journal of Moral Education in Africa

This piece has studied the place of youths in the life of the church, focusing on Pope Francis’ post synodal exhortation Christus Vivit. The beauty of the document is that in it, the Nigerian context and situation of the young people in the Church can also be seen. The document tries to take into its reflection all that could make reference to Youth in the relationship with God, the church, the family and society and finally the Youth’s personal life and this gives the document its weight in the discussion that should be alive in the Nigerian Church’s message and in various youth organizations and groups in the Church and also its feature of being easily studied and reflected upon. The relationship between the Nigerian young people and the Church, is not a reality that is ever statically defined and this is because, Time and History are always on the dynamic wave and both the Church and the Young people are form part of this dynamic movement, therefore it is important to reiterate those essential features that should be found in the relationship between the Youth and the Church. This piece recommends a free-flowing channel of communication from the part of the Church to the young people and vice versa, so that these young people not only will they hear but also, will understand and internalize the message passed on to them and the reasons for the said message. The young people should not be afraid to present their suggestions and use their talents especially in the pastoral ambience of the Church when called upon. The Church should also create the environment of mutual growth that involves recognizing worthy achievements of the young people, fraternal criticism and unwavering spiritual support.

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