THE MASSES ADVOCATE..................Benin City Hosts 20th Anniversary Congress, Emphasizing YOMM's Unique Pontifical Status. -By Ruben Mario Brodrick

Benin City, Nigeria –

 The Young Missionary Moment of Nigeria (YOMM), a vital arm of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) of the Propagation of Faith (POF), recently convened its Provincial Congress in Benin City, marking an impressive 20 years since the movement's inception.

 Under the inspiring theme, "We are Missionaries of Hope," the gathering at St. Paul Minor Seminary served as a powerful reminder for young missionaries to fully embrace their unique and elevated status within the Catholic Church.

A key message from the congress was a resounding call for YOMM members not to underestimate themselves or set low standards compared to other youth organizations.

 Speakers emphasized that YOMM, being a direct extension of the Pontifical Mission, is uniquely headed by the Supreme Pontiff himself – the Pope.

"YOMM is not just like any other movement or organization; it is under the Pontifical Mission Society of the Propagation of Faith," a speaker stressed, highlighting that POF is the oldest and foundational pillar of the four PMS arms.

 "This is why we must take it very importantly, because it is the main society that the three other societies hinge on." The speaker further asserted that "without the Propagation of Faith, the three other societies may not be able to survive."

Young missionaries were urged to deeply understand their pivotal role. The convention aimed to equip them with knowledge on how to operate effectively and "distinguish ourselves in the mission of the church, in the dioceses and parishes." The goal is for YOMM members to articulate clearly what sets them apart from other groups like the Block Rosary Crusade or the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON). "What makes it a very more important than others, is because it is Pontifical, in the sense that it is the society where we have the Pope as the head, that is why it is called the PMS," it was explained.

A strong caution was issued against the misconception that YOMM is merely a missionary arm of CYON. "I keep telling my people when they say they are the missionary arm of the CYON; I tell them that, that is reducing your dignity and status," a speaker firmly stated. "YOMM is Pontifical, CYON is not Pontifical: then, how can you be an arm of something you are bigger than...?" The distinction was clear: while being the youth arm of the Propagation of Faith is accurate and elevates YOMM, aligning with CYON diminishes its true status, as "the status of YOMM is much more higher than that."

The congress provided an invaluable opportunity for members to redefine their focus, enhance organization at the provincial level, and reaffirm their commitment to the mission. 

The event was rich with activities, including Holy Mass, vibrant cultural and contemporary dance displays, fervent prayers, enriching excursions, insightful lectures, and a spirited quiz competition among dioceses. Uromi Diocese emerged victorious, with Benin City Archdiocese securing second place, and Warri Diocese taking third.

The congress also welcomed a host of distinguished guests, including the Archbishop of Benin City, represented by Very Rev. Fr. Benjamin Brodricks, and PMS Directors from various dioceses, such as Very Rev. Fr. Kingsley Arhoroghue Ogbejeje (Bomadi Diocese), Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Ojakorotu (Warri Diocese), and Rev. Fr. Isidore Omodeagbon (Uromi Assistant PMS Director). 

Also in attendance was Sr. Memsoma Otuonye, DSP, coordinator of the Holy Childhood Association in Benin City Archdiocese, among others.

 *National Coordinator Calls for Action* 

Rev. Fr. John Arulegba, the National Coordinator of the Propagation of Faith, addressed the young missionaries, emphasizing their role as a dynamic "group for collective action for change." He urged them to carry this understanding back to their respective dioceses.

"As you are celebrating the 20th anniversary of YOMM, as you are having this Provincial Congress, I want you to put this in mind, when you go back to your different dioceses, I want you all to know that you are called to be Missionaries and to be strong action for change," Fr. Arulegba asserted.

 He highlighted the unique link between YOMM and POF, underscoring that their mission is to propagate the Faith in a distinct way. He reminded them that their youthful energy and dynamism are powerful assets for God's missionary work.

Concluding, Fr. Arulegba extended gratitude on behalf of the national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, expressing prayers that the gathering would ignite greater enthusiasm for God's mission, making them more attentive to the Holy Spirit and powerful instruments for evangelization.