The Children and Youth Harvest Thanksgiving at St. Gabriel Catholic Mokola, Ibadan, on Sunday August 24, 2025, saw a powerful homily delivered by Rev. Fr. Peace Jemibor, who applauded the young people for their active involvement and liturgical contributions. Fr Jemibor's sermon centered on the profound invitation to God's heavenly banquet, emphasizing the "narrow door" to salvation.

Addressing the congregation, particularly the youth, Fr. Jemibor articulated that while heaven is freely offered, it demands significant personal effort and self-discipline to enter. He urged attendees to introspection, asking them to "focus on yourself, charge yourself, and enter through the narrow door."

A key message was the necessity of shedding "baggages" before attempting to pass through this narrow path to heaven. He identified these impediments as sins, hatred, selfishness, lust, insults, anger and other vices. "We need to drop all these baggages," he stressed, "before we can pass through the narrow door that leads to heaven. Examine your life and check the actions that will not allow us to enter."

Fr Jemibor underscored self-discipline as the crucial action required. He noted that whether through divine grace or personal exertion, disciplined living is essential for navigating the narrow way. He encouraged perseverance, reminding the faithful not to be discouraged by the challenges. "Take care of your soul," he advised, reiterating that while heaven is free, readiness and effort are paramount.

Ultimately, Fr. Jemibor proclaimed, "Jesus is the narrow door that leads to heaven." He called on everyone to cultivate a personal relationship with Christ, who is ready to guide them through this path to eternal life.

He concluded by commending the youth for their outstanding involvement in the Church, particularly their robust participation in the harvest Thanksgiving. He encouraged them to sustain this dedication, viewing their good works as a path that deepens their relationship with Jesus and serves as a pointer towards their heavenly journey.

Youth Week Activities preceded Harvest Celebration. As part of the preparations for the Children/Youth Harvest, the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON) of St. Gabriel Parish organized a vibrant week-long Youth Week. This initiative featured memorable and fun-filled events primarily focused on skills acquisition and faith formation. Participants were given the opportunity to learn practical skills such as tie-and-dye techniques, gele (headtie) tying, frame making, soap production, and perfume creation. 

Some of the creative items produced by the youth were prominently displayed on the harvest day and successfully put up for auction, showcasing their talents and industriousness.

The Youth Week activities also included a spirited novelty football match between the CYON and the Nigeria Association of Catholic Corpers (NACC) of the Parish. This event fostered sportsmanship and community bonding. The week culminated in a lively Jersey Sunday, where youth proudly displayed and represented their favourite football clubs during the Sunday Mass, enjoying the full and enthusiastic participation of all parishioners.