The Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Umuahia II Deanery of the Catholic Diocese of Umuahia, has intensified calls for youth empowerment and community development through a skills acquisition initiative unveiled during its 2026 Deanery Day celebration held at St Finbarr’s Parish, Umuahia, Abia State.
The event, which attracted Catholic clergy, women leaders, seminarians, youth groups, parish representatives and other guests, was held under the theme, “True Love in Action,” drawn from 1 John 3:18.
A major highlight of the celebration was a fundraising campaign aimed at procuring catering services equipment to support vocational training for youths. Organisers described the initiative as a practical response to rising unemployment and economic hardship affecting many Nigerian families.
Speaking during the event, President of the Catholic Women Organisation, Umuahia II Deanery, Mrs Ihuoma Egbeogu, said the project represents a practical expression of Christian love through sustainable empowerment programmes designed to transform lives.
She explained that the organisation chose catering services because the hospitality and food industry continues to offer viable entrepreneurial opportunities for young people seeking economic independence.
According to her, the initiative is intended to equip youths with practical vocational skills that will enable them become self-reliant, generate income and contribute positively to society.
Mrs Egbeogu stressed that true love must go beyond words and be demonstrated through actions that uplift vulnerable groups, strengthen families and create opportunities for future generations.
“True love is patient, kind, forgiving, selfless and sacrificial. It is the kind of love our Lord Jesus Christ showed to humanity. As Catholic women, we are called to reflect this love through our actions and service to humanity,” she said.
She further noted that the catering equipment project would provide a foundation for organised vocational training programmes for youths within and outside the Church community, adding that youth empowerment remains critical to reducing poverty, discouraging crime and promoting social stability.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr Mrs Grace Chiboagui Okaro, commended members of the organisation for their unity and commitment towards the success of the programme.
Dr Okaro emphasised the importance of vocational education, noting that access to modern catering equipment would enhance practical learning and encourage entrepreneurship among trainees.
Earlier during the Holy Mass, Assistant Parish Priest of St Finbarr’s Parish, Rev Fr Emmanuel Uzoigwe, reflected on the theme “True Love in Action,” urging Christians to embrace compassion, sacrifice and service as essential pillars of Christian living.
He praised the Catholic women for combining spiritual devotion with developmental initiatives capable of creating meaningful social impact.
The Dean of Umuahia II Deanery, Very Rev Fr Vitus Eke, also lauded the women for what he described as a visionary and community-focused initiative, encouraging continued support for programmes that empower youths and strengthen families.
Chairman of the occasion, Lady Stella Nwachukwu, commended the organisation for its commitment to faith-based humanitarian efforts and grassroots development, while the patron of the Deanery, Sir Ezinna Barrister Goodluck E. Egeruka, assured members of his support towards the successful implementation of the project.
The celebration also featured the unveiling of a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, quiz competitions, the unveiling of the 2026 Mothering Sunday theme, and an American auction involving blessed garments and accessories associated with Mother Mary.
Participants described the programme as a blend of spirituality, charity, culture and community development, with observers noting that the initiative reflects the growing role of faith-based organisations in tackling unemployment and promoting youth empowerment through vocational education and entrepreneurship.
