For him, it is time for Africa to “break the chains of slavery, colonization, the colonial agreements ... neocolonialism, military imperialism, and supervised independence.”
Bishop Kouadio also denounced ideologies and practices contrary to moral principles, referring specifically to issues such as gender and marriage for all, as well as zoophilia.
Confronted with these challenges, the President of CECCI reminded young people of their responsibilities, saying, “Dear youths, life is a choice. And as young people, many choices await you. For your happiness and in the name of your faith, avoid the broad avenues of perdition known as: easy money, cybercrime, illegal immigration, homosexuality, drugs, alcoholism, emotional dependence, violence, abusive language on social media, casual sex, immorality, and exoteric sects.”
He urged youths to turn decisively to Christ through prayer. Referring to the Gospel Reading of the day, the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time, he said, “In life, dear youths, you must know how to say ‘NO.’ Enter through the narrow door of prayer, the spirit of trust and surrender to God, self-confidence, diligent work, a spirit of sacrifice, and moral integrity.”
Bishop Kouadio’s message resonated with participants at the youth day celebrations.
Marc Jordan, a pilgrim from the Catholic Archdiocese of Abidjan, said the teachings strengthened his faith and inspired him to guide peers toward peace and moral responsibility in the country.
“I was very happy to participate in the JNJ (national Youth Day) for the first time. After these days, I commit to raising awareness among my friends. Since we are in an election year, we must pray for Ivory Coast in search of peace and also alert them to the vices and scourges that destroy our society,” Marc Jordan told ACI Africa on the sidelines of the August 19-24 event.
Catholic Priests also took part in the celebrations. Fr. Martial Latess, the National Chaplain of Catholic Scouts, lauded youths for showing unity and commitment to living out their faith.
“We were truly delighted with all the youths because it is the youth who give substance to a country’s life. Gathered together, we have shown that we can live in communion, unity, and face our realities under the Lord’s guidance,” Fr. Latess told ACI Africa.
Justin Assalé is a Catholic journalist from Ivory Coast. He holds a diploma in communication and advertising. Working for Ivory Coast’s national Catholic radio, he is a correspondent of ACI Africa in Francophone West Africa.
