The Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Katsina Diocese, on 8 May 2026 received the National Youth Day (NYD) Cross and Marian Icon from the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto in a solemn and spirit-filled ceremony held at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Sokoto Diocese.
The delegation from Katsina Diocese arrived at about 11:00 a.m. and was led by Rev. Fr. Musa Abubakar, who represented the Dean of Funtua Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Richard Shuaibu.
The delegation was warmly received by Rev. Fr. Paul Oyisi, OP, Gusau Deanery Chaplain, alongside members of CYON from Sokoto Diocese.
NYD Cross and Marian Icon Officially Handed Over
The formal handover ceremony was conducted by the Sokoto Diocesan Vice President, Miss Rebekah Ogbu, who presented the NYD Cross and Marian Icon to the Katsina Diocesan President, Mr. Francis Martins.
The ritual prayers accompanying the handover were led by Rev. Fr. Paul Oyisi, OP, and Rev. Fr. Musa Abubakar, as the two dioceses entrusted the sacred symbols to the care of the young people of Katsina Diocese.
The handover marked another significant stage in the spiritual journey of the NYD Cross and Marian Icon, which serve as symbols of faith, unity, sacrifice, and the missionary calling of young Catholics.
Cross Arrives at St. Mary’s Gidan Korau
Following the handover ceremony, the NYD Cross and Marian Icon proceeded to St. Mary’s Gidan Korau in Funtua Deanery, Katsina Diocese, where they were received by the Dean of the Deanery, priests, and members of the faithful during a Holy Mass.
The Reception Mass was celebrated prayerfully, after which the faithful participated in the veneration of the Cross.
The Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Habila S. Bala, who served as Chief Celebrant, with Very Rev. Fr. Richard Shuaibu, Dean of Funtua Deanery; Rev. Fr. Musa Abubakar; and Rev. Fr. Nura Samaila concelebrating.
“No Cross, No Crown”
Delivering the homily, Rev. Fr. Nura Samaila reflected on the spiritual significance of the Cross in the life of every Christian.
He began by asking the congregation: “When you see the Cross, what is the first thing that comes to mind?” The response was: “Salvation.”
Expounding on the meaning of the Cross, Rev. Fr. Nura emphasized that the Christian journey is inseparable from sacrifice, perseverance, and faithfulness to Christ.
He reminded the faithful, particularly the young people, of the popular Christian expression: “No Cross, No Crown,” stressing that genuine discipleship requires the willingness to persevere through challenges while remaining faithful to God.
He encouraged the youths to see the NYD Cross not merely as a symbol being carried from one place to another, but as a reminder of their responsibility to embrace Christ and live out their faith courageously.
Rev. Fr. Nura concluded his homily with prayers for the successful preparation and celebration of the forthcoming National Youth Day.
A Moment of Faith and Youthful Renewal
The Mass concluded with the ritual prayers associated with the National Youth Day Cross, marking a significant moment of faith, unity, prayer, and spiritual renewal for the youths of Katsina Diocese.
The arrival of the NYD Cross and Marian Icon in Katsina Diocese is expected to provide opportunities for young people and the wider Catholic community to deepen their faith, strengthen their unity, and prepare spiritually for the forthcoming National Youth Day celebration.