National Handbook of the Catholic Youth Organization

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NATIONAL HANDBOOK OF THE CATHOLIC YOUTH ORGANIZATION

Imprimatur Date: 1st September, 2011 Gabriel Charles Palmer-Buckle Archbishop of Accra Archdiocese

GENERAL INDEX CONTENT PAGE Personal Notes 3 Short History of the Ghana C.Y.O 4 What is the C.Y.O 5 Initiations Requirements 6 The C.Y.O Prayer 7 The C.Y.O Laws (Code) 8 Initiation and Inauguration Ceremonies 9 The RibbonsTest 13 The Proficiency Badges 16 C.Y.O Emblem and Colours 17 The Structure of the C.Y.O 17 The C.Y.O Uniform 18 Our Method of Work 20 Our Activities 21 Our Signals and Formations 23 National Registration 29 Alert Crusader 29 Our C.Y.O Songs 30 Amended National Constitution 34

PERSONAL NOTES

Name:……………………………………………………………

Address:…………………………………………………………

Date of Birth:……………………………………………………

Place Of Birth:…………………………………………………..

Date of Baptism:………………………………………………...

Date of Confirmation:…………………………………………...

Date of Joining the C.Y.O:………………………………………

Date of Initiation:………………………………………………..

Date of Yellow Ribbon:…………………………………………

Date of Red Ribbon:…………………………………………….

Date of Blue Ribbon:……………………………………………

A SHORT HISTORY OF THE GHANA C.Y.O.

The C.Y.O is an International Organization which exist in all parts of the world in different names. It was founded in Ghana by His Lordship, Right Rev. Bishop Adolf Noser, SVD, DD of the Accra Diocese and Rev. Peter Norek, SVD in 1949 at the time when the majority of the Youth was left to themselves without guidance. It appointed Mr. Victor Ako-Adonuvo as its first full time Director in 1951. Later he became the National Chairman in 1960.

In 1951, His Excellency Sir Charles Noble Arden Clarke, K.C.M.G the then Governor of the Gold Coast now Ghana, laid the foundation of the C.Y.O Sports Stadium at Adoagyiri- Nsawam.

Branches of the movement spread throughout the country on Diocesan basis independent of each other. It was in 1959 that a National Federation of All Catholic Youth Movements in all the various dioceses was formed at express wish of the Hierarchy.

The C.Y.O was very active in the Archdiocese of Cape Coast through the dynamism of Rev. Fr. Vincent Kwabena Damuah, Archbishop John Kodwo Amissah and the members. Working closely with the then National Chairman, Rev. Damuah directed the activities of the C.Y.O in Saltpond so creditably that in January 1963 he was detained for 5 days for criticizing some aspects of the defunct Young Pioneer Movement programme especially the deification and institutionalization doctrines.

The C.Y.O is a beneficiary of the National Trust Fund and its effective contribution towards Ghana’s independence from colonial domination was specially noted.

The C.Y.O is devoted to facilitate and conduct training courses in the field of Youth Service, to seek and administer funds for Youth Service, to co-operate with the Church, the Government and other agencies concerned with Youth Service to foster and co-ordinate activities of Church societies dealing with Youth.

WHAT IS THE C.Y.O?

The C.Y.O is an Organization which taking the parish as its base, and without regard to social class or profession, provides for young people a Christian Community life order to prepare them for active co-operation in building a living church and a better world.

Further, it is the objective of the organization to inspire, direct and guide the natural creative qualities and desire of young people by promoting recreational, educational, cultural and religious programme that will adequately meet their physical, mental and spiritual needs.

INITIATION REQUIREMENTS One becomes a full member of the C.Y.O after initiation. In order to qualify for Initiation, the new member should know the following: A. NAME OF THE ORGANIZATION AND ITS MEMBERS – Our organization is called the “Catholic Youth Organization” or C.Y.O. A member of the C.Y.O. is called a “Crusader” i.e. a person who fights for the Kingdom of God. B. THE AIM OF THE ORGANIZATION – Our aim is to become true friends of God and better citizens of our Country and to help others to do the same C. WHO CAN BE A MEMBER OF THE C.Y.O. – The C.Y.O is first of all for Catholic Youth, but it is open to all other Youth who wish to work for the advancement of its aims. D. THE C.Y.O. LAW OF CHARITY – We love God above all things and we love others as Jesus loved us. E. THE C.Y.O. PLEDGE – I Promise upon my honour to be loyal to my God, to my Country and to my Church, to faithful and true to all my obligations as a Catholic and a citizen of Ghana. So help me God. F. THE C.Y.O. SALUTE – The C.Y.O Salute is given with the Right Palm raised facing forward and crossed by the Thumb thus forming the sign of the Cross

G. THE C.Y.O. GREETING – A Crusader greeting salutes saying: “For God and Ghana”, the Crusader being greeted responds with a salute and says: “Thanks be to God”. H. THE C.Y.O. SLOGAN – The Leader says: “C.Y.O.” All answer: “Do Something for God and Ghana Now!” or “Charity” and the response is “Forever!” I. THE C.Y.O PRAYER – a. Lord Jesus, I offer you this day all my work, my hopes and struggles, my joys and sorrows. Grant me and my fellow Crusaders the grace to think like you, to work with you and to live in you. Help me to love you with all my heart and serve you with all my strength. Your Kingdom come in all our schools, offices, farms, workshops and homes. May those of us who today may be in danger of sin remain in your grace and may those who have died in our apostolate rest in peace.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Have mercy on us Queen of Apostles Pray for us All Saints of Africa Pray for us St. John Bosco Pray for us St. Maria Goretti Pray for us

b. Jesus our brother and leader, we give our whole life to you. Help all men to know and love you. Make us always do what is pleasing to you. Amen

J. THE C.Y.O LAWS (CODES) 1. A Crusader is honest. 2. A Crusader is clean. 3. A Crusader attends all meetings of the movement. 4. A Crusader prays regularly. 5. A Crusader is kind and helpful. 6. A Crusader plays fair and is a good loser. 7. A Crusader must give a good example. 8. A Crusader is all out for God and Ghana. 9. A Crusader does his day’s work well. 10. A Crusader is to serve and not to be served.

K. THE C.Y.O NATIONAL YOUTH DAY – Falls on the Feast of Christ the King on the last Sunday before Advent (The end of November). L. THE PATRON SAINTS OF THE C.Y.O. – St. John Bosco (31st January) and St. Maria Goretti (6th July).

M. THE C.Y.O. ANTHEM An army of Youth Flying the Standard of Truth We’re fighting for Christ the Lord. Heads lifted high Catholic action our cry. And the Cross our only sword. On earth’s battlefield, Never advantage we’ll yield, As dauntlessly on we swing. Crusaders True! Dare and do! ‘Neath the Queen’s White and Blue. For our Flag for our Faith For Christ the King. 8

INITIATION AND INAUGURATION CEREMONIES A. INTRODUCTION: i. NEW UNITS: Members are to be initiated into a Unit. For a new Unit to be declared ‘Inaugurated’, at least 20 members need to be initiated. This group of Crusaders can only be initiated; a) After having attended not less than 15 CONSECUTIVE weekly meetings. b) After having passed the necessary initiation tests ii. EXISTING UNITS: a) For already existing Units the date of 1st initiation of its members should be considered as the date of the inauguration of the Unit b) New members can be initiated into a Unit preferably on any of the following occasions: - Christ the King - St. John Bosco - St. Maria Goretti - Martyrs of Uganda - Easter Sunday - Pentecost Day - Parish or Local Patron Saints Feast Day

Initiation of the members and the inauguration of the Unit forms one ceremony. This ceremony should be preceded by a 3-Day Retreat and should take place during Eucharistic celebration.

The following procedure should then be followed: a) INITIATION 1. Candidates join the entrance procession to the Church 2. Immediately after the Homily the Parish Chairman invites candidates by calling their names. On hearing their names they answer ‘Yes Crusader’ and come forward in front of the Celebrant. 3. Where applicable, the blessing of the uniforms and of the C.Y.O flag is now performed. 4. When this is done, or after all candidates have come forward, all present sing “Come Holy Ghost” in English or in Vernacular. 5. The Celebrant then asks; “What do you ask, Candidates? The Candidate answer: “I ask permission to make my promise and to be accepted as a full member of the C.Y.O. and to pledge my fidelity to God and Ghana.” Celebrant: Do you know the Law of Charity? Candidate: Yes I do Celebrant: What is the Law of Charity? Candidate: To love God above all things and to love others as Jesus loved us. Celebrant: Very well, keep this law of charity and you will be true friend of God and brother and sister to all men.

The Celebrant or Parish Chairman, or any invited Senior C.Y.O. Officer gives a short address on the meaning of the ceremony and the duty of Crusaders to be a shining example to all and especially to other youth and to become future leaders. (Ref. “Leaders Guide” P24&25). At the end of the address the Celebrant continues: Candidates, in the name of His Grace, Archbishop/His Lordship, Bishop ………………………………..…… ……………..…………………………… (NAME) of ………………………………………. (Arch/Diocese) I now give you permission to make your promise. The candidates come forward in groups of 3 or 4 and while saluting with the right hand, put the left hand on the C.Y.O. flag and recite the pledge. The Parish Chairman then presents the Membership Cards to the Unit Organizing Secretary for later distribution. B. INAUGURATION: The Celebrant then officially declares the Unit Inaugurated by saying; “In the name of the National President and the National Management Council of the C.Y.O. I Solemnly declare the ………. Unit of the C.Y.O inaugurated and recognized as an efficient instrument of Catholic Action for the Glory of God, and the spiritual and material welfare of our motherland, Ghana. For God and Ghana!”

The Celebrant then presents the Certificate of Registration to the Unit Chairman and Sprinkles the whole group with Holy Water. All sing the C.Y.O National Anthem and return to their places. iii. In already existing units the following procedure should be followed for the initiation of new members: - Candidates join the entrance procession to the Church - Immediately after the Homily the Parish Chairman invites candidates by calling their names. On hearing their names they answer ‘Yes Crusader’ and come forward in front of the Celebrant. - All sing “Come Holy Ghost” in English or in Vernacular. - The Celebrant then proceeds as in (B-I-5a). - After the presentation of the C.Y.O. Membership Cards, all already initiated Crusaders present renew their promise by reciting together the C.Y.O. Pledge. All sing the C.Y.O. National Anthem and the new Crusaders return to their places

THE RIBBONS TEST INTRODUCTION: Initiation is an important step for every Crusader, but it is only the first of several steps. The next step for each Crusader to strive after is the obtaining of the RIBBON. The Ribbon once obtained will be worn as a ring around the shoulder straps. Each Section has its own colour of RIBBON. - Infant Jesus Yellow Ribbon - Young Apostles Red Ribbon - Christian Soldiers Blue Ribbon Before obtaining the Ribbons, the members will need to pass some Tests, by which it is to be judged whether they have made progress in their particular Section or not.

A. THE YELLOW RIBBON – INFANT JESUS: To obtain the Yellow Ribbon each member of the Infant Jesus Section will have to pass the following Tests 1. Pass all the initiation Tests 2. Regular attendance at meetings for at least six months after the initiation. 3. Regular attendance at Sunday Mass or Service. For Catechumen regular attendance at Sunday Mass or Service and at Catechism Classes 4. Know the name of the Pope and of your own Archbishop/Bishop and Parish Priest. 5. Know the name of the Head of State and of all Members of Government. 6. Know the meaning of Baptism and what it does for a Christian. 7. Know the meaning of the Eucharist and receive communion regularly. 13

8. Know the arithmetic tables up to 10 at least. 9. Take active part in all activities of the Unit. 10. Have full C.Y.O Uniform.

B. THE RED RIBBON – YOUNG APOSTLES Each member of the Young Apostles’ Section should pass the following tests in order to obtain the Red Ribbon. 1. Pass all the initiation Tests 2. Regular attendance at meetings for at least six months after the initiation. 3. Regular attendance at Sunday Mass or Service. For Catechumen regular attendance at Sunday Mass or Service and at Catechism Classes 4. Know the name of the Pope and of your own Archbishop/Bishop and Parish Priest, and or C.Y.O. Chaplain. 5. Know the name of the Head of State and of all Members of Government. 6. Know all Sacraments and their meaning. 7. Know the main parts of the Mass. 8. Be able to serve Mass or know the answers at Mass by heart. 9. Know how and when to give Baptism. 10. Take part and try to excel in some sports or game e.g. football, volleyball, basketball, etc. 11. Know the life of Jesus in detail. 12. Know the life of St. John Bosco and St. Maria Goretti. 13. Take active part in all activities of the Unit. 14. Have persevered in one or other project for at least 4 months e.g. farming, fishing, visiting the sick/poor, voluntary work, etc. 14

15. Know some handicraft and make a complete object by yourself e.g. Pottery, basketry, carving, leatherwork, weaving needlework, etc. 16. Have full C.Y.O. Uniform.

C. THE BLUE RIBBON – CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS 1. Pass all the initiation Tests 2. Regular attendance at meetings for at least six months after the initiation. 3. Regular attendance at Sunday Mass or Service. For Catechumen regular attendance at Sunday Mass or Service and at Catechism Classes 4. Know the name of the Pope and of your own Archbishop/Bishop and Parish Priest, and or C.Y.O. Chaplain. 5. Know the name of the Head of State and of all Members of Government. 6. Know all Sacraments and their meaning. 7. Know the main parts of the Mass. 8. Know how and when to give Baptism. 9. Be able to prepare and conduct Bible or Social Study using the C.Y.O. Method of Work 10. Be able to prepare and give interesting Catechism Class or Bible Studies to young children. 11. Take full part in all activities of the Unit and be full active member of the Parish. 12. Take part and try to excel in some sports or game e.g. football, volleyball, basketball, table tennis, swimming, etc. 13. Have an elementary knowledge of first Aid. 14. Know how to plan a budget and plan a week’s menu. 15

15. Know and be able to explain the present system of government in Ghana. 16. Know how to introduce a chairman and give vote of thanks at functions. 17. Know how to take minutes of a meeting and give report of activities. 18. Have full C.Y.O Uniform.

THE PROFICIENCY BADGES The Proficiency Badges are awarded if a Crusader excels in a particular field such as Social Service, adventure, exceptional good behavior, sports, Culture, religious or Bible knowledge, First Aid, etc. below are Badges available and the conditions necessary to obtain them.

1. GHANA BADGE: A member trying to obtain the Ghana Badge should be initiated and be in the possession of the Red or Blue Ribbon. This badge is given to members who excel in social services such as taking part in Development Programmes steadily for at least 4 months. 2. AFRICAN SAINTS BADGE: This badge is given to members who have undertaken any activity under expedition and camping, hiking included. Acquisition: - Young Apostles Boys: Walking 15miles or riding 40miles Girls: Walking 7miles - Christian Soldiers Male: Walking 40miles plus 2nights camping.

On such expeditions, those aspiring for the badge should take notes of all that they see for assessment 3. ST. JOHN BOSCO BADGE: This badge is for Young Apostles who have excelled in Religious or Bible knowledge for which a contest should be arranged for on Diocesan Level. 4. ST. MARIA GORETTI BADGE: This badge is given to members for good behavior, not only at meetings but also at home and school. For this, enquiries should be made from parents, school authorities, etc. for recommendation

C.Y.O EMBLEM AND COLOURS We Crusaders have an Emblem or Badge which is the Mark of our Movement. It is round like the World and on the world are the letters C.Y.O. Our emblem means that we work in our Movement for God and all in the world. And our colours are Green and White. The White colour signifies purity, honesty, simplicity and peace, and the Green stands for youth, energy and hope. C.Y.O. FLAG: The C.Y.O Flag is White with the C.Y.O. emblem in the middle. It has the Ghana flag on the upper inside corner. The name of the District or Parish or Unit may be printed on the other Upper corner.

THE STRUCTURE OF THE C.Y.O. A member of the C.Y.O is called a Crusader i.e. a person who fights for the Kingdom of God.

ALL CRUSADERS are grouped into SECTIONS according to their age. a. Infant Jesus 6 – 11 Years b. Young Apostles 12 – 16 Years c. Christian Soldiers 17 Years and above

1. Each CRUSADER belongs to a UNIT. 2. Each UNIT belongs to a PARISH or DEANERY 3. Each PARISH or DEANERY belongs to a DIOCESAN C.Y.O. 4. Each DIOCESAN C.Y.O belongs to the NATIONAL C.Y.O. 5. The NATIONAL C.Y.O is a member of the International Federation of Catholic Parochial Youth Movements, FIMCAP. Each Crusader should belongs to a TEAM for effective and full participation.

THE C.Y.O. UNIFORM Our C.Y.O Uniform is the external sign of our unity it the ideas we stand for, to work “For God and Ghana”. The Uniform agreed upon for the various members of the C.Y.O all over the country is stated below. INFANT JESUS Boys: - Green Shorts - White short sleeved shirt with shoulder straps, 2 covered breast pockets with C.Y.O. emblem on the left pocket. - Plain green scarf with white rim and green boat-shaped cap, with white rim. - Black shoes and white socks. 18

Girls: - White short sleeved shirt type blouse with shoulder straps, 2 covered breast pockets with C.Y.O emblem on the left pocket. - Plain green scarf with white rim and green boat-shaped cap with white rim. - Black shoes and white socks. YOUNG APOSTLES Boys: - White pair of trousers with black belt - White shirt (same as Infant Jesus boys) - Green scarf and green boat-shaped cap (same as Infant Jesus girls). - Black shoes and white socks. Female: - White frock, top same as Infant Jesus Blouse, waist dart- white belt. - Green scarf. - Green boat-shaped cap (same as Infant Jesus girls) - Black shoes and white socks. CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS Male: - White pair of trousers. - White bush jacket with white belt. - White boat-shaped cap with green rim. - Black shoes and white socks. Female: - White skirt, shirt and bush jacket with white belt. - Green tie and white boat-shaped cap with green rim. - Black shoes and white socks.

NB: Male Crusaders should remove the cap or beret when entering a church and put it between their left should strap.

For Officers and additional (ref. Leaders Guide page17). Female Crusaders should not wear earrings, chains and other jewelry with their uniform. All Crusaders must be simple and smart. Every Crusader should guard against adding other items to the uniform apart from those approved by the organization.

OUR METHOD OF WORK This method is not an exclusive property of the C.Y.O. The method of SEE, JUDGE AND ACT is used by any Organization within and without the Church, which is geared to action and not only talking. The method consist in this way;

SEE: This means that you take time to find the facts; you look around, SEE the problem and study it. This takes time and effort, so don’t hurry over it but take your time. It can take you two or more weeks. Only when the problem is studied properly and in depth will you be able to find solutions to it. JUDGE: Use your head to think about what you have seen and found out. Think what could be done. Think what should be done and the best way to do it. Think with others too and make your judgment. ACT: This means that you do not just think and talk about the problem. You really must get down to work and do something about it. This is the most difficult but the most essential part of this method; no matter how much you think and talk, if you do nothing about it, then the use of this method is to no avail. You have judged what is the right thing to do, so, now you take together the decision to DO it either each one on his own 20

(personal task) or in a team (team work). Do not be afraid of work or what others will say about it. Whatever task is agreed upon, its value is not to be found in the fact that it is difficult, neither the number of times it has been performed, but in the personal free effort, in the personal faith which was evoked, in the personal free love which came to light. He who ‘does’ what he ‘says’ strengthens his faith even without knowing it. His being a Christian takes deeper and deeper root. We don’t do things just for the sake of being called ‘active’ but in order to make a conviction penetrate more deeply in our members.

OUR ACTIVITIES In the C.Y.O. we do things for God, for Our Country, for Others and for Ourselves.

1. For God: - we try to become true friends of God, by training ourselves to become better Christians. - We do our regular Bible study. - We learn to serve God at the Alter - We take full part in Parish life: Liturgy, plays, songs and rallies. - We fight bad practices and customs. - We help our family to pray together. - We work hand in hand with our priests. 2. For Country and Others: If we look around, Crusaders, we will see; - The poor - The sick - The old people 21

- The friendless - Those in trouble - The school leavers And many more who really NEED your HELP and encouragement. And besides helping those people, you also can help others around; - The home - The farm - The school - The village - The market - The factories/offices And in many other places you find yourself, but you need to open your eyes and see what you can do. But there are some special things which we crusader try to do; - We have our regular social study - We love our country and keep close to our people by taking full part in our village life, by attending public celebrations, weddings, funerals and other gatherings. We try to make those functions more Christian. - We take special interest in the work of our area – farming, fishing, weaving, etc. and we try to improve on them. - We try to organize activities for other youth in our area. Crusaders, God wants us to train ourselves fully so as to be useful to Him and our Country and fellowmen. 3. For ourselves: - We work in teams: it helps us to think, to discuss and co- operate with others. - We learn to do things ourselves. We discover our own problems and try to solve them. 22

- We play many games to train our mind and body. - We sing and learn new songs. - We take part in all kinds of competitions: athletics, netball, indoor games, etc. - We learn needlework, weaving, sewing or other handicraft. - We take part in debates, lectures, discussion groups, Bible studies, social studies and leadership courses. - We try to provide for the future by saving our money carefully. - We learn to live with one another. - We crusaders show love for manual work.

OUR SIGNALS AND FORMATION A C.Y.O. Section or Unit should be smart and quick in all its movements. When must know when to love and when to be serious. The C.Y.O can be a wonderful training in SELF CONTROL, but each crusader must co-operate and make the effort that the practice of self-control requires. Our C.Y.O. signals and formation help us in this training in discipline. A. SIGNALS The whistle signals are necessary signs for order during activities. To avoid confusion, they must be used sparingly, and only when extremely necessary. In principle a whistle signal demands immediate performance and must not be repeated. In order to foster unity in the movement all Sections and Units should know the following whistle signals. In each signal a dash (-) means a long whistle blast, while a dot (.) means a short whistle blast. 1. Dot dash dot (.-.) means AT TEN TION 2. Dash dot (-.) means FALL IN 23

3. Repeated dots (…) means SILENCE 4. Dash dot dash dot (-.-.) means HURRY UP, HURRY UP 5. Dash dot dot dot (-…) means GO INTO TEAMS B. FORMATION Through the formations the members manifest self-discipline. Formations are adapted to the nature of the activities which follow. To place members in formation the officer whistles “FALL IN” (-.) and indicates the required formation through the position of his hands.

1. THE SQUARE FORMATION

Indications: The officer whistles FALL IN and places hands on the hips. Execution: the members assemble by team side by side and form the three sides of a square. The officer occupies the fourth side. 24

When used? - Opening and closing of meetings. - For important announcements. - For solemn ceremonies. 2. THE CIRCLE FORMATION

Indication: The officer whistles FALL IN and swings his arms sideways completely up and down. Execution: The members form a circle the same order to be followed as for the square formation. The officer stands in the middle. When used? - For games - For informational gatherings. - For singing or telling stories

3. THE SEMI-CIRCLE FORMATION

Indication: The officer whistles FALL IN and swings his arms sideways above the head and down to shoulder height. Execution: Same as circle formation but only half a circle is formed. When used? - For closing and opening formation of the Infant Jesus Section. - For singing, telling stories and explanation of games.

4. FORMATION IN TEAMS

Indication: The officer whistles FALL IN and extends both arms horizontally forward, fist clinched. Execution: The members assemble behind the team leader, one behind the other. The team leaders stand three meters away from the officer, facing him. Equal distance should be maintained between the teams. When used? - For team games and team competitions. - To march with a small group for a short distance. 5. ONE LINE FORMATION

Indication: The officer whistles FALL IN and extends the arms horizontally sideways, his fist clenched. Execution: The members assemble side by side per team. The teams arrange themselves in a line besides each other facing the officer. When used? - Games announcements - Inspection of uniforms, etc.

6. ACCORDING TO HEIGHT FORMATION

Indication: The officer whistles FALL IN and stretches his left arm sideways at shoulder level, his fist clenched.

Execution: The members assemble in one line in front of and facing the officer. The tallest one at the extreme left and then on the left of him all others follow according to height.

When used? - For games, whenever you want to form teams that need to be equally strong.

NATIONAL REGISTRATION All properly formed C.Y.O. Units shall register annually with the National Secretariat through the Diocesan Secretariat. The National Management council, which is the policy making body shall from time to time fix an annual registration fee to be paid by each individual member. This exercise of the National Registration serves the following: 1. Source of information about our numerical strength. 2. Source of income for both National and Diocesan Secretariats. 3. Helps in the allocation of C.Y.O. materials and aids to Dioceses from the National Secretariat.

ALERT CRUSADER This is the title of our National C.Y.O. Magazine which appears quarterly (i.e. four times a year). Among other things, the Magazine; a. Informs us of C.Y.O. activities all over the country. b. Gives us outline programme based on our theme for the year.

Since the Magazine is for all C.Y.O. members, members can contribute different articles and also subscribe to it, to keep abreast with the development and progress in the C.Y.O. Movement.

OUR C.Y.O. NATIONAL ANTHEM AND SONGS

1. AN ARMY OF YOUTH An army of Youth Flying the Standard of Truth We’re fighting for Christ the Lord. Heads lifted high Catholic action our cry. And the Cross our only sword. On earth’s battlefield, Never advantage we’ll yield, As dauntlessly on we swing. Crusaders True! Dare and do! ‘Neath the Queen’s White and Blue. For our Flag for our Faith For Christ the King.

2. CHEER UP, CHEER UP, C.Y.O Cheer up, cheer up, C.Y.O. We sing of thy glory, Hail all, hail both far and near, To glorify her name. Cheer up youth, cheer up youth, For our mother dear. Join in cheerful melody To glorify her name.

3. C.Y.O SHALL REIGN FOREVER C.Y.O. shall reign forever, Always brave and true. We’ll attempt to do our duty. We shall never fall. We’ll attempt to do our duty. We shall never fall.

4. C.Y.O. I AM PROUD TO BE A MEMBER C.Y.O. I am proud to be a member To work for God and Ghana, My Motherland. To work for God and Ghana, My Motherland. C.Y.O I am proud.

5. DON’T YOU WANT TO BE A MEMBER? Don’t you want to be a member Of the C.Y.O. Y.O Don’t you want to be a member of the C.Y.O.? Don’t you want to go to Heaven when you die?

1. The C.Y.O will strike its roots deep in the heart of Ghana (2) 2. The C.Y.O will spread the truth deep in the heart of Ghana (2) 3. The C.Y.O. will lead the way deep in the heart of Ghana (2) 4. The C.Y.O. will fight for Christ deep in the heart of Ghana (2)

6. CRUSADERS YOU SAY – YOU LOVE KING JESUS Crusaders you say – you love King Jesus Crusaders you say – you love the Lord Crusaders you say – you love your neighbor Crusaders you say – you love all men Come and let us see how, you love King Jesus Come and let us see how, you love the Lord Come and let us see how, you love your neighbor 31

Come and let us see how, you love all men. Boys and girls you say, ……………………….. Christians you say, ……………………………. Leaders you say, ……………………………….

7. HE IS KING OF KINGS He is King of Kings He is Lord of Lords Jesus Christ is the first and the last No man was like him

8. C.Y.O. BROTHER (SISTER) C.Y.O Brother C.Y.O. C.Y.O. will you join? - We shall build you up - Why not join us now? - God will make you good, etc

9. GOOD BYE CRUSADER Good-bye Crusader Good-bye Crusader If I don’t see you anymore. I’ll meet you in heaven. In the blessed kingdom If I don’t see you anymore.

So now God bless you. So now God bless you. If I don’t see you anymore.

I’ll meet you in heaven. In the blessed kingdom If I don’t see you anymore.

10. WE ARE MARCHING ON On, on, on we are marching on. The ………..C.Y.O is marching on We are marching on the land We can march on the sea We can even march in the air

11. C.Y.O. YOUTH C.Y.O. Youth, North and South rally round; From every Diocese, join up, make haste. From East and West, North and South rally round; Our common battle cry the earth must resound. Fearless in the fight, Onwards our army swing. Faithful unto death, Forward for Christ the King.

12. TODAY THE BOYS AND GIRLS OF GHANA Today the boys and girls of Ghana – We are Tomorrow we shall be the men and women. Ready we are to play our part As loyal children of the Motherland. Under the banner of C.Y.O. For God and Ghana – thanks be to God Ready we …………………

NATIONAL CONSTITUTION OF THE C.Y.O IN GHANA Article 1 – Name The name of the Organization shall be the “CATHOLIC YOUTH ORGANIZATION”, hereafter called C.Y.O. Article 2 – Charter a) The C.Y.O is an Organization which taking the parish as its base, and without regard to social class or profession, provides for young people a Christian Community life order to prepare them for active co-operation in building a living church and a better world. b) The objective of the organization is to inspire, direct and guide the natural creative qualities and desire of young people by promoting recreational, educational, cultural and religious programme that will adequately meet their physical, mental and spiritual needs. c) The C.Y.O. shall organize and conduct leadership training courses for its leaders.

Article 3 – Relationships a) Pursuant to its objectives, the C.Y.O. shall affiliate with the recognized coordinating body of all youth movements for the time being in the church and in the country.

b) It shall seek to affiliate with any other youth serving agencies, which accepts the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as the basis of service and action, likewise shall reject or discontinue affiliation with organizations which contradict the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. c) On behalf of its Diocesan Management Councils the National Executive Board shall serve as a channel of negotiation with other national and international bodies and shall appoint delegates to meetings as and when necessary.

Article 4 – Membership 1. The C.Y.O. is first of all for catholic youths but it is open to all other youth who wish to work for the advancement of its aims. 2. Admission of new members shall conducted as follows: a. The prospect shall make an application on a form in triplicate to be provided by the National Secretariat. b. Such application shall be endorsed by the parent/guardian of the applicant and the Unit Organizing Secretary. c. The application must be accompanied by an admission fee to be fixed annually by the National Management Council. d. On admission, copies of the application form shall be kept by the unit, Diocesan and National Secretariats for future reference. Article 5 – Structure 35

1. a) The C.Y.O. shall have a five (5) level administrative hierarchy, viz; i) NATIONAL ii) DIOCESAN iii) DEANERY iv) PARISH v) UNIT b) Except in the Unit, there shall be set up on each level a Management Council and an Executive Board. c) On the National level there shall be set up in addition to the Bodies in (b) above, a National Secretariat. d) In the Unit there shall be set up only an Executive Board. ii. UNIT LEVEL Unit Executive Board a) Composition The Unit Executive Board shall be made up of the following officers: - Unit Chairman - Unit Vice Chairman - Unit Organizing Secretary - Assistant Unit Organizing Secretary - Unit Ladies Organizer - Unit Financial Secretary - Unit Chaplain/Treasurer b) Meetings The Unit Executive shall meet at least once a month. Unit meetings shall be held weekly. 36 c) Quorum An attendance of two-thirds of the members shall constitute a quorum for the Unit Executive Board provided the Unit Chairman, Vice Chairman or Chaplain shall be present. The quorum for a Unit Meeting shall be ten (10) inclusive of the Chairman, Vice Chairman or Chaplain.

iii. PARISH LEVEL A. Parish Management Council There shall be set up in each Parish a Management Council to be called the “Parish Management Council” a) Composition The Parish Management Council shall be made up of the following officers: i) Parish Chairman ii) Parish Vice Chairman iii) Parish Organizing Secretary iv) Assistant Parish Organizing Secretary v) Parish Ladies Organizer vi) Parish Financial Secretary vii) All Chairmen and Organizing Secretaries of all Units in the Parish (Ex-officio) viii) The Parish Chaplain and any other co-opted members of the Parish Executive Board (Ex-officio) b) Functions The function of the Parish Management Council shall be i) To ensure that policies agreed upon on National, Diocesan and Deanery Levels are implemented in the Parish.

37 ii) To coordinate the activities of the Units. iii) To receive reports and representations of the Unit Executive Board. c) Meetings The Parish Management Council shall meet at least every quarter. The meetings shall be convened by the Parish Organizing Secretary in consultation with the Parish Chairman and the Parish Chaplain. d) Quorum An attendance of two-thirds of members including the Parish Chairman, Vice Chairman or the Parish Chaplain shall constitute a quorum. e) Voting Decisions shall ordered by simple majority vote.

B. PARISH EXECUTIVE BOARD There shall be set up in each parish an Executive Board to be known as Parish Executive Board. a) Composition The Parish Executive Board shall be made up of the following; i. Ex-officio Members - The Parish Chairman - The Parish Vice Chairman

- The Parish Organizing Secretary - The Assistant Parish Organizing Secretary - The Parish Ladies Organizer - The Parish Financial Secretary ii. The Parish Chaplain to be appointed by the Parish Priest iii. Any other Members Co-opted by the Parish Executive Board. b) Functions i. The Parish Executive Board shall be responsible for the Management and Administration of all C.Y.O. business in the Parish. ii. The Parish Executive Board shall propose Policies, draw Programmes, call conferences, organize seminars, rallies and convene the meetings of the Parish Management Council. c) Meetings The Parish Executive Board shall meet at least once every Month. d) Quorum An attendance of two-thirds of members including the Parish Chairman/Vice Chairman or Chaplain shall constitute a quorum.

e) Voting Decisions shall be ordered by a simple majority vote. iv. DEANERY LEVEL A. Deanery Management Council Where a Deanery exists, there shall be set a Management Council to be known as the Deanery Management Council. a) Composition The Deanery Management Council shall comprise the following officers: i. A Deanery Chairman ii. A Deanery Vice Chairman iii. A Deanery Organizing Secretary iv. An Assistant Deanery Organizing Secretary v. A Deanery Financial Secretary

Ex-officio - The Deanery Chaplain - All Parish Chairmen within the Deanery - All Parish Vice Chairmen with the Deanery - All Parish Organizing Secretaries within the Deanery - Any co-opted Member of the Deanery Executive Board. b) Functions The functions of the Deanery Management Council shall be as follows:

i. To ensure implementation of policies agreed upon on National and Diocesan Levels in the Deanery. ii. To coordinate activities for the Parishes. iii. To receive reports and representations of Parish Management Councils. iv. To elect officers to constitute the Deanery Management Board. c) Quorum An attendance of two-thirds of members including the Deanery Chairman/Vice Chairman or Chaplain shall constitute a quorum. d) Voting Decisions shall be ordered by a simple majority vote.

B. DEANERY EXECUTIVE BOARD There shall be set up in each Deanery a Deanery Executive Board. a. Composition The Deanery Executive Board shall comprise the following Officers:

i. Ex-officio Members - The Deanery Chairman - The Deanery Vice Chairman - The Deanery Organizing Secretary - The Deanery Assistant Organizing Secretary - The Deanery Ladies Organizer - The Deanery Financial Secretary

ii. A Deanery Chaplain to be elected by the Parish Chaplains or appointed by the Bishop iii. Any other Member co-opted by the Deanery Executive Board. c) Functions The functions of the Deanery Executive Board shall be as follows: i. The Deanery Executive Board shall be responsible for the Management and Administration of all C.Y.O. business in the Deanery. ii. To propose Policies, draw Programmes, call conferences, organize seminars, rallies and convene the meetings of the Deanery Management Council.

c) Meetings The Deanery Executive Board shall meet at least three times a year, and shall be convened by the Deanery Organizing Secretary in consultation with the Deanery Chairman and Deanery Chaplain.

d) Quorum An attendance of two-thirds of members including the Deanery Chairman/Vice Chairman or the Chaplain shall constitute a quorum. e) Voting Decisions shall be ordered by a simple majority vote. v. DIOCESAN LEVEL A. DIOCESAN MANAGEMENT COUNCIL There shall be set up in each Diocese a Management Council to be called Diocesan Management Council a. Composition The Diocesan Management Council shall comprise the following officers: i. A Diocesan Chairman ii. A Diocesan Vice Chairman iii. A Diocesan Organizing Secretary iv. An Assistant Diocesan Organizing Secretary

Ex-officio - The Chaplain/Treasurer - Any co-opted Member of the Diocesan Executive Board - All Deanery or Parish Chaplain within the Diocese - All Deanery or Parish Chairmen within the Diocese - All Deanery or Parish Organizing Secretaries with the Diocese. - One other Member of each Deanery or Parish Executive Board 43 b) Functions

The functions of the Diocesan Management Council shall be as follows: i. See to it that policies agreed upon at the National Meetings are implemented in the Diocese. ii. To coordinate activities of the Deaneries or Parishes. iii. See to it that leadership training is constantly and efficiently carried on within the Diocese. iv. To receive reports and representations of from the Deanery or Parish Management Councils. v. To elect from its members the following officers to constitute the Diocesan Executive Board.

- Diocesan Chairman: He shall preside over all meetings of the Diocesan Management Council and the Diocesan Executive Board.

He shall be responsible to the Diocesan Management Council for the general Administration of the C.Y.O in the Diocese

- Diocesan Vice Chairman: He shall act in the absence of the Diocesan Chairman.

- Diocesan Organizing Secretary: He shall be responsible to the Diocesan Executive Board for the Day-to-Day organization and administration of the Diocesan Secretariat.

He shall be responsible for the proper conduct of the financial accounting and proper book keeping of the organization’s Diocesan Funds. He shall present a statement of accounts at each Diocesan Management Council Meeting.

- Assistant Diocesan Organizing Secretary: He shall be the official scribe of the Diocesan Management Council and the Diocesan Executive Board Meeting. He may perform such functions as may be assigned by the Diocesan Chairman and or the Diocesan Management Council. He shall also serve as the Diocesan Publicity Officer. c) Meetings i. The Diocesan Management Council shall meet at least twice a year. ii. Notice of meetings; not less than fourteen (14) clear days’ notice shall be given of the meeting of the Diocesan Management Council.

iii. The meeting shall be convened by the Diocesan Organizing Secretary in consultation with the Diocesan Executive Board.

45 d) Quorum An attendance of a simple majority of members constituting the council including the Diocesan Chairman/Vice Chairman or Chaplain shall constitute a quorum for ordinary business. e) Voting Decision shall be ordered by a simple majority vote.

B. DIOCESAN EXECUTIVE BOARD There shall be set up in each Diocese a Diocesan Executive Board. a. Composition The Diocesan Executive Board shall be made up of the following officers: i. Ex-officio Members - The Diocesan Chairman - The Diocesan Vice Chairman - The Diocesan Organizing Secretary - The Diocesan Assistant Organizing Secretary ii. A Diocesan Chaplain/Treasurer to be appointed by the Bishop. iii. Any other persons co-opted by the Diocesan Executive Board.

46 b) Functions The functions of the Diocesan Executive Board shall be as follows: i. The Diocesan Management Council shall be responsible for the general Management and Administration of all C.Y.O. business in the Diocese. ii. It shall propose policies, draw programmes, call conferences, organize seminars and rallies and convene the meetings of the Diocesan Management Council. c) Meetings i. The Diocesan Executive Board shall meet at least twice a year. A special meeting may be called by the Diocesan Chairman or Chaplain upon the request of at least one-third of the elected members. ii. The meeting shall be convened by the Diocesan Organizing Secretary in consultation with the Diocesan Chairman and Chaplain. d) Quorum An attendance of four members including the Diocesan Chairman/Vice Chairman or Chaplain shall constitute a quorum.

47 e) Voting ex-officio Decisions shall be ordered by a simple majority vote. vi. NATIONAL LEVEL A. NATIONAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL The governing body of the C.Y.O shall be the National Management Council a. Composition The National Management Council shall be composed of the following members i. An Honorary President who shall be the Bishop appointed by the Ghana Bishops’ Conference for Youth Movements. 2 Vice Presidents who shall be elected by the National Management Council. ii. A National Chairman - A National Vice Chairman - A National Organizing Secretary - An Assistant National Organizing Secretary iii. Ex-officio - An Internal Auditor - A National Chaplain - All Diocesan Chaplain - All Diocesan Chairmen

If one of those from the Dioceses cannot attend a substitute may attend the National Management Council Meeting provided he or she is an elected member of the Diocesan Executive Board and is nominated as substitute seven clear days before such meeting. b) Functions i. The National Management council shall be responsible for the formulation of policy for the work of the entire C.Y.O. ii. It shall receive and review representations from the various Diocesan Management Councils. iii. It shall receive and review representations from the Church Hierarchy and from other National and International Agencies and consider matters arising from liaison measures with such approved Bodies. iv. It appoint a National Organizing Secretary and such number of Assistant National Organizing Secretaries, as the need requires, with the approval of the Ghana Bishops’ Conference, to be in charge of the C.Y.O. National Secretariat. It shall appoint such other staff as it deems necessary assist the National Organizing Secretary in running the National Secretariat.

49 v. It shall elect among its members the following officers to constitute the National Executive Board:

- National Chairman: He shall preside over all meetings of the National Management Council and the National Executive Board and shall be responsible to the National Management Council for the general Management and Administration of the entire C.Y.O.

- National Vice Chairman: He shall act in the absence of the National Chairman. He shall assist the National Chairman and perform such duties as assigned by the National Chairman and the National Executive Board or National Management Council.

- Assistant National Organizing Secretary: He shall be the official scribe of the National Management Council and the National Executive Board and shall perform such functions as assigned by the National Chairman and or the National Executive Board.

- Internal Auditor: He shall every quarter check the account of the Organization and report to the National Executive Board through the National Chairman.

- It shall also elect two Vice Presidents as advisory members to the National Management Council and the National Executive Board.

50 vi. It shall appoint an External Auditor. vii. It shall receive from the National Executive Board a Draft Programme for the ensuing year. viii. It shall receive form the National Executive Board the Audited Statement of Account for the past year and approve the budget for the ensuing year. c) Meetings i. The National Management Council shall meet once every year in September. ii. Extra-ordinary meeting may be convened by a two- third majority vote of the National Executive Board or at the request of the Church Hierarchy.

No business shall be transacted at an extraordinary meeting other than that defined on the agenda for such meeting. iii. Notice of Meetings: Not less than one month clear notice shall be given of the National Management Council.

51 iv. The meeting shall be convened by the National Organizing Secretary in consultation with the National Executive Board. d) Quorum An attendance of one-third of the National Executive Board Members and representatives of two-third of the Dioceses shall constitutes a quorum for ordinary business e) Voting Except for the amendment of this constitution decisions, an ordinary business taking in Council shall be ordered by a simple majority vote. f) External Auditor It shall be his function to audit the account of the C.Y.O. Secretariat and submit to the Management Council once every Calendar Year Audited Statement of Account.

B. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD There shall be a National Executive Board of the National C.Y.O. b. Composition The National Executive Board shall comprise the following: i. Ex-officio Members - The two Vice Presidents - The National Chairman - The National Vice Chairman 52

- The Assistant National Organizing Secretary - The National Internal Auditor ii. The National Organizing Secretary, appointed by the National Management Council. iii. The National Chaplain, appointed by the Ghana Bishops’ Conference. iv. Any other member co-opted by the National Executive Board. b) Functions i. The National Executive Board shall be responsible for the proper Management and Administration of the business of the C.Y.O. It shall propose policies, draw programmes, call conferences and convene the meetings of the National Management Council. ii. It shall every year lay before the National Management Council for approval;

- The National Annual Report - The Draft Programme of work for the ensuing year. - An audited financial statement of account for the preceding year. - A form of budget for the ensuing year.

53 c) Meetings i. The National Executive Board shall meet at least once every three months. A special meeting may be called by the National Chairman/Chaplain in consultation with half or more of the elected members. ii. The meeting shall be convened by the National Organizing Secretary in consultation with the National Chairman and Chaplain. d) Quorum An attendance of five (5) members including the National Chairman/Vice Chairman or Chaplain shall form a quorum. e) Voting Decisions shall be ordered by a simple majority vote. C. C.Y.O. SECRETARIAT a) The C.Y.O National Secretariat shall be composed of a full-time National Organizing Secretary, a full-time Chaplain and such other staff as the National Management Council shall appoint. b) The National Organizing Secretary: He shall be directly responsible to the National Executive Board for the day to day administration of the entire C.Y.O. Secretariat. c) National Chaplain: He shall be the Spiritual Director of the Organization. He will in conjunction with the National Organizing Secretary, responsible to the National Executive Board for the Administration of the National Secretariat. He shall also be the Treasurer of the Organization.

Article 6 – C.Y.O. Officers 1. Election a) C.Y.O Officers at all levels shall be elected by secret ballot after nominations have been made. Those elected shall be subject to the approval of the appropriate church Authorities. A simple majority will carry the vote. b) The National Executive Board shall have the power to make regulations relevant to elections at all levels.

2. Term of Office C.Y.O. Officers at all levels are be elected for a term of two years and can be re-elected for not more than three consecutive times

3. Removal from Office a) If an officer is absent from meetings for three consecutive times without any tangible reason or is seriously neglecting his duties, he or she is liable to be removed from office by the appropriate Management Council or Executive Board. b) In case the Organizing Secretary is neglecting his duty, the respective Chairman or Chaplain shall convene a meeting to deal with the situation, and if there is stalemate, the next higher authority shall have the power to intervene.

Article 7 – National Registration 1. All properly formed C.Y.O. Units shall register with the Secretariat through Diocesan Secretariat.

2. The National Management Council shall from time to time fix an annual registration fee to be paid by each individual member

Article 8 – Financing The C.Y.O shall be financed by its own promotions and through voluntary donations.

Article 9 – Amendment 1. This Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of Diocesan representatives present at the National Management Council Meeting.

2. Resolutions for amendments of the constitution shall be circulated by the National Secretariat for consideration of Diocesan Management Council not less than thirty (30) clear days before annual meeting of the National Management Council.

Proposals for amendments from Diocesan Management Councils should reach the C.Y.O. Secretariat forty-five (45) clear days before the meeting of the National Management Council.