Children Charged to Use Their Talents for Good at Archdiocesan Celebration
By Augustine Orapine
The future is bright when children believe in themselves, and that belief rang loud and clear during this year’s Children’s Day celebration organized by the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City. The event featured an inspiring speech by Osagiede Deborah, a young girl whose powerful message urged children to grow in hope, faith, and purpose.
Speaking on the theme “A Hopeful Generation: Growing Hope in Our Children,” Deborah reminded her fellow children that they belong to a special generation with access to powerful tools, “the internet and technology” which must be used positively.
“We are a generation that, despite the challenges the world is facing, still has the trust of many who believe we will make a better future. Instead of doing negative things like yahoo and scam, we can use the internet to do positive things that can be helpful to the world and the Chur
ch.” she said.
She pointed to role models from their generation who used their gifts for good, including Blessed Carlo Acutis, known as the “Patron Saint of the Internet,” who used his computer skills to promote the Catholic faith; Vivian Uchechi Ogu, a Nigerian Servant of God and member of the Holy Childhood Association, known for her charity and purity; and Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a 15-year-old Nigerian who broke the Guinness World Record for the largest painting on canvas to raise awareness about autism.
“These great people believed in us even when they are no more,” Deborah said. “And how can we show t
hem that yes, we won’t let them down?”
She encouraged the children to remain focused, not rushing into adult responsibilities, but embracing discipline and the teachings of the Church. “We should be focused on our studies. We should embrace ourselves more with positive things than negative things,” she advised.
Deborah also emphasized righteousness. “To live a life of righteousness as a child, we must practice kindness, be truthful and show respect to others. Jesus is our role model, and we can also be role models to others,” she said.
Very Rev. Fr. Ehigie, who represented the Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, presided over the Mass. In his message, he urged children to be obedient and respectful at home. “Always listen to your parents and guardians,” he said. “It is the first step to growing in wisdom and in the love of God.”
The celebration brought together children from various parishes across the Archdiocese and ended with a renewed sense of purpose.
