President of the Accra Archdiocesan Catholic Youth Council, Mr. Augustine Dagbey has said despite the numerous challenges faced by the youth in the Church, leaving the faith is not an option.
Assuring the Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie and his auxiliaries, as well as dignitaries, present at the launch of the 2024 Archdiocesan Youth Congress at the St. Paul’s Seminary on June 27, Mr. Dagbey stressed the transformative potential of young Catholics amidst a world characterised by technological prowess and spiritual enrichment.
He acknowledged the dual reality facing modern youth—a blend of technological proficiency and societal pressures that often overshadow the quest for spiritual growth.
“However, the modern-day youth face numerous challenges. Issues such as unemployment, relationship turmoil, family breakdowns, uncensored media exposure, and the rise of superficial social media influencers can be overwhelming. When seeking solace from the Church, the demands can sometimes feel unbearable, with unfriendly criticisms and harsh corrections, leaving little room for self-discovery, confidence-building, and encouragement. This can lead to confusion and a sense of alienation within the Church,” He said.

Despite these challenges, Mr. Dagbey affirmed the commitment of Accra’s Catholic youth to the Church as a beacon of hope and salvation
“Yet, we have no other place to turn to but to stay and hope for a brighter future in the Church, because Christ exists here, and in Him, there is salvation. This is an opportune time for the youth of the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, armed with the knowledge of our times and the advancements at our disposal, to be invited by our Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp, and his Auxiliaries,” he declared.
The Youth Congress serves as a rallying point for young Catholics to engage meaningfully with their faith, address contemporary issues, and contribute to the Church’s vitality. Under the leadership of Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie and his auxiliaries, the congress aims to empower the next generation, fostering dialogue and action that resonate with Christ’s teachings.