The Life of the Founder

The life of a founder in any religious institute is never an easy path. It is a journey marked by sacrifice, conviction, and an unwavering love for God and humanity. This truth is beautifully captured in the words of the Father Founder himself, who once stated that “the price of founding a genuine Religious Institute is one’s life blood.”

This profound statement reflects the depth of commitment, suffering, and dedication required to bring a divine vision into reality.

A Life Rooted in Love for God

At the heart of the Founder’s life was a deep and burning love for God. His greatest desire was not only to love God personally but to lead others into that same love and relationship. This spiritual longing was clearly expressed in his ordination motto:

“O God, you are my God, for you I long; for you my soul is thirsting” (Psalm 62:1).

This was not just a scripture he quoted—it was a life he lived. His entire mission and ministry flowed from this deep thirst for God and a commitment to bring others closer to Him.

The Vision Behind the Foundation

The founding of the Holy Family Fathers and Brothers of the Youth was not merely an institutional effort but a response to a divine calling. It was driven by a desire to address real human needs, especially among young people.

The Founder saw the struggles facing many youths—poverty, idleness, crime, drug abuse, and lack of direction—and responded with compassion and action. Through the congregation, he initiated a mission focused on the rehabilitation and transformation of vulnerable young people.

This vision included:

  • Counseling and psychotherapy
  • Medical and psychiatric support where necessary
  • Skill acquisition and job creation initiatives
  • Agricultural programs such as poultry, piggery, fish farming, and crop cultivation

His goal was not just to rescue young people from harmful paths but to restore their dignity and help them build meaningful lives.

Investing in the Future

The Founder understood that prevention is just as important as rehabilitation. To this end, he envisioned the establishment of educational institutions—primary, secondary, and tertiary—where young people could receive both quality education and strong moral formation.

He believed that when given the right environment, guidance, and opportunities, every young person has the potential to grow, thrive, and contribute positively to society.

A Legacy of Sacrifice and Hope

The life of the Founder stands as a testament to what it means to give oneself completely to God’s work. His journey was not defined by comfort or ease, but by sacrifice, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of a higher calling.

Today, his legacy lives on in the lives transformed, the community built, and the mission that continues to grow. What began as a seed of faith has become a movement of hope—touching lives across different places and cultures.

Rev. Fr. Paul Chimezie Esieme, HFFBY
The Vicar General
The Promoter of the life of the Founder & Director of the Youth Apostolate