Youth Commission – Catholic Archdiocese of Jos

Forming the Future of the Church Today

The Youth Commission of the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos is a vibrant and dynamic pastoral structure dedicated to the holistic formation, empowerment, and accompaniment of young people. Recognizing that youth are not just the future of the Church, but also its present, the Archdiocese commits itself to nurturing the spiritual, moral, intellectual, and emotional growth of its young members from their earliest years through to full maturity.

While many institutions express concern for young people, the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos goes a step further—it is deeply invested in their formation, providing them with the guidance, structures, and platforms needed to grow into faithful, responsible, and purpose-driven adults. Youths possess an incredible energy, enthusiasm, and openness that make them particularly well-suited for service to God and humanity. The Church seeks to channel this energy into constructive and holy purposes, inspiring them to live as witnesses to the Gospel in their schools, parishes, and wider communities.

Youth Groups and Structures

The ministry extends to several youth-focused associations and apostolic groups, each of which caters to specific age groups, interests, or charisms. These include:

• CYON (Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria) – The umbrella youth body that brings together young Catholics for faith, leadership, and service.
• Zumuntan Yan Mata – A vibrant female youth group focused on nurturing Christian values and womanhood.
• NACC (National Association of Catholic Corps Members) – Serving Catholic youths during their NYSC year with spiritual formation and apostolic activities.
• Block Rosary Crusade – A devotional group that instills Marian spirituality and the habit of prayer from a young age.
• YCS (Young Catholic Students) – A school-based movement promoting Catholic identity, study, and leadership among students.
• Catholic Cadet – A group that fosters discipline, respect, and civic awareness through structured activities and training.
  
  

Journeying with Youth to Full Potential

Understanding the unique vulnerabilities and challenges faced by young people today—peer pressure, secularism, unemployment, identity crises, and more—the Youth Commission approaches its mission with pastoral sensitivity, cultural awareness, and unwavering commitment. The aim is to guide youths toward their full potential in life, helping them discover their God-given purpose, choose noble vocations—whether priesthood, religious life, marriage, or lay apostolate—and become agents of transformation in both Church and society.

In all its work, the Youth Commission remains a beacon of hope, standing as a ministry of presence, purpose, and accompaniment, ensuring that no young person walks alone in their journey of faith

The Archdiocese is not only concerned about her youths; she is much more interested and involved in the formation of the youth, since they exhibit the desired energy in serving the Lord. The continuous formation of Catholic youths extends from early ages up to adulthood. Knowing fully well they belong to a fragile group of people that need to be cared for, guided and tailored to reach their full potentials in life and to attain noble vocations. This ministry of the youths expands to groups like Zumuntan Yan mata, CYON, NACC, Block Rosary, Cadet, YCS, etc 

A Ministry of Presence and Purpose

The Youth Commission works closely with parishes, schools, and youth organizations to create an inclusive and supportive environment where young people feel heard, valued, and inspired. Its core goals include:

• Spiritual Formation: Through catechesis, retreats, prayer meetings, pilgrimages, and sacramental preparation, youths are introduced to a deep personal relationship with Christ and formed in the values of the Catholic faith.
• Leadership Development: The Commission equips young people with leadership skills, encouraging them to take on active roles within the Church and society. They are trained to become peer mentors, group leaders, and future leaders of the Church.
• Moral and Vocational Guidance: Recognizing that youths often face moral confusion and life-defining decisions, the Commission provides pastoral counseling, vocation discernment opportunities, and character development programs, helping them align their talents with God’s purpose.
• Social Engagement and Community Building: The Commission also fosters friendship, solidarity, and service through youth events, charity drives, advocacy, and civic engagement.