By Juliana Uzoka

St. Theresa Catholic Church recently concluded its 2024 summer program, aimed at addressing the challenges of peer pressure and social media influence on children and youth. The program, which took place from August 5th to September 5th at the parish hall in Jos, was titled “St. Theresa Children’s Summer Program 2024.”

The program focused on providing moral formation and skills acquisition for children aged 6 to 18 and sought to create a positive environment for the children to interact, socialize, and develop personal relationships with God. It aimed to address the prevalent issues of peer pressure and the negative effects of social media, which have become significant concerns for the Church and the community at large.

Over 100 children participated in the program, divided into two groups to address age-specific topics.

The Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Jonah Onah, emphasized the need for early guidance, citing exposure to peer pressure and social media’s negative influence as growing concerns. He highlighted the lack of parental guidance and weak Christian foundations as contributing factors to behavioral issues among children.

“This program is designed to help protect our children from the societal ills that can derail their futures,” Fr. Onah said. “They are the future of the Church and the world, and we must devote time and resources to grooming them.”

Fr. Onah expressed gratitude to the parents who ensured their children participated and acknowledged the dedication of those who attended regularly. He also reassured parents that the Church is committed to their children’s well-being.

“Know that you are special, that you are loved, and that you are cared for,” Fr. Onah told the children. “Among you here are future doctors, nurses, lawyers, and government leaders. Remember, your tomorrow is shaped by the seeds sown today.”

Solomon Okonkwo, a facilitator and member of the parish, explained that the summer program aimed to instill positive values and character while also providing the children with skills that would empower them in the future.

“We want the children to know God personally, avoid idleness, and stay positively engaged during the long vacation,” Okonkwo said.

The children expressed their appreciation for the program. Dayo Nissi, 15, who aspires to be a lawyer, said she gained valuable experiences, with self-love and children’s rights resonating the most with her. Divine Achugamonu, 13, who won an award for attentiveness, expressed gratitude for the lessons and skills he acquired. He noted his interest in barbing and tailoring and emphasized the importance of seeking God’s guidance before making important decisions.

For Ekwem Emmanuel Chubuzor, 13, the program provided an opportunity to nurture his dream of becoming a footballer or engineer. “I’ve learned valuable lessons that will help me live a meaningful life and avoid reckless choices,” he said.

Topics covered during the workshops included substance abuse, peer pressure, health and hygiene, time management, children’s rights, self-esteem, and habit formation. Practical skills such as hairdressing, baking, tailoring, and carpentry were also taught.

The program concluded with a film screening, a dance competition, and award presentations. One of the highlights was a young girl Gift Nanpo Obo, who was rewarded with a dress for her consistent attendance at daily Mass.

The success of St. Theresa Catholic Church’s summer program underscores the importance of proactive measures to support the holistic development of children and youth in the face of contemporary societal challenges. The initiative’s impact on the participants’ lives signifies a significant step toward fostering a generation equipped with positive values, practical skills, and a strong moral compass.