Holy Family Youth Movement (HFYM)
Hosted by the Holy Family Fathers and Brothers of the Youth, Okija, Anambra State, Nigeria
Date: 21st – 24th August, 2025
Introduction
The Second National Youth Convention of the Holy Family Youth Movement (HFYM), organized and hosted by the Holy Family Fathers and Brothers of the Youth, took place from 21st – 24th August 2025 at the Generalate, Okija, Anambra State, Nigeria. The event drew young people from across the country for four days of spiritual renewal, intellectual engagement, skill acquisition, health care, and social interaction.
Theme and Focus
The convention was anchored on theme relevant to today’s youth.
The General Theme of the Convention ( Pilgrims of Hope: Youth for the Future) included other themes such as
The challenge of Neopaganism in contemporary society.
The call to live as Gen Z for Christ.
Digital skills development and monetization of social media platforms.
Promotion of mental health and physical well-being.
Through conferences, workshops, prayers, and social activities, the convention fostered a holistic formation of the youth—spiritually, intellectually, and socially.
Programme Highlights
Day 1: Thursday, 21st August 2025 – Arrival & Orientation
Arrival and registration of participants.
Evening prayer, dinner, and introduction session.
Briefing on housekeeping and introduction of Vigoplace/online quiz.
“Meet and Greet” among participants, fostering fellowship and unity.
Day 2: Friday, 22nd August 2025 – Conferences & Spiritual Growth
Opening session with a Welcome Address by the Superior General and a Keynote Address by the Director of Youth Apostolate.
Conferences on pressing issues such as
Neopaganism: Rev Fr Barr. JohnBosco Igwe
Gen Z for Christ by Rev Fr Dr George Adimike
Nutrition and Lifestyle by Rev Fr Anthony Anowai HFFBY
Workshops facilitated by designated moderators.
Spiritual moments including Rosary prayers.
Recreational session with a film show in the evening.
Day 3: Saturday, 23rd August 2025 – Skills, Health, and Social Night
Morning Mass and Lauds.
Digital and tech skills training with focus on social media monetization.
By Rev Emmanuel Uzoma HFFBY
Free medical check-up and mental health counseling.
Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and counseling sessions.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, live praise and worship.
Social Night with music, fun, and the announcement of online quiz results.
Day 4: Sunday, 24th August 2025 – Thanksgiving & Departure
Thanksgiving Mass to conclude the convention.
Closing remarks and departure of participants.
Key Achievements
1. Spiritual Renewal: Many participants benefited from the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist, Adoration, prayers, and Rosary processions.
2. Intellectual Engagement: Youths gained insight into relevant issues like faith challenges, digital opportunities, and positive youth identity in the church.
3. Skill Development: Training on digital skills and social media monetization equipped youths with tools for self-reliance.
4. Health & Well-being: The free medical check-up and mental health counseling promoted holistic care.
5. Unity & Fellowship: Sports, social night, and meet-and-greet sessions enhanced networking, collaboration, and bonding among youths.
Conclusion
The Second National Youth Convention of the Holy Family Youth Movement was a resounding success, combining faith, learning, health, and fun. The convention strengthened the identity of young Catholics as disciples of Christ in the digital age, equipped them with life skills, and deepened their spiritual lives.
We, The Holy Family Fathers and Brothers of the Youth, through this initiative, reaffirmed our commitment to the integral formation of the youth and their active role in the life of the Church and society.
Fr. Joseph Chíbụzọr Ọkakpụ, HFFBY
National Coordinator
