The Cathdral Church of St Jude Ebute Meta - St. Jude’s Church, Ebute Meta, established in 1869 as the first church on Lagos Mainland, evolved through faith and resilience. From its humble beginnings as the "Bamboo Church" and "Jungle Church," it became a symbol of religious freedom and growth. By 1928, it was envisioned as a future cathedral, a prophecy fulfilled in 2006 with its dedication as the Cathedral of St. Jude.

United in Christ

THE YOUTH CLUB

The Youth Club of the Cathedral Church of St. Jude was formed over 75 years ago (1948) following a conference organized by the old Lagos Diocese for Sunday School teachers. The conference aimed at developing educational programmes to build Anglican youths in evangelism, sports, social life, and church administration.

Papa David Olutade Odugbose, a renowned educationist, led a delegation of young men from St. Jude’s Church to the conference. He was the only participant who submitted recommendations—recommendations that were accepted and became the foundation for youth organizations across Anglican churches.

Our History

In 1949, the Youth Club was officially inaugurated with Pa. D. O. Odugbose as the pioneer President and Pa. J. K. Babajide as Secretary. Several dedicated men worked tirelessly to ensure the growth and relevance of the Club within church activities.

Notable among the forerunners were: Pa. G. A. Ajayi, Pa. Elutilo, Chief D. A. Akintola, Pa. (later Baale) D. O. Adewale, Pa. R. O. Macarthy, Chief Dokun Adeyemi, and Pa. S. O. Oladoyin. Their sacrifices laid the foundation upon which the Club thrives today.

In the early 1970s, recognizing the need for continuity, the founding members actively recruited young boys from the Sunday School, Choir, Boys’ Brigade, and other church units to form the Youth Wing. This ensured leadership development, accountability, and sustained service to the Church.

Growth & Leadership

The Youth Wing was later fully integrated into the main Club, inheriting strong traditions of discipline, service, and leadership. Over the years, the Club has played vital roles in the welfare and spiritual growth of its members and continues to actively participate in Church life.

The Club has produced leaders within the Church, including priests and senior administrators. Notable among them are:

Ven. Tunde Oduwole – Chaplain
Mr. Wole Odunuga – Chairman, Harvest Sub-Committee & Choir Warden
Mr. Tunde Banwo – Vice President & former Choir Secretary (23 years)

The current leadership is led by Mr. Gbenga Adeboye (President) and Mr. Leke Odunuga (Secretary).

Achievements

One of the earliest societies to sponsor a pillar in the new church building (PISGA).
Past co-chairmanship of Harvest Celebrations.
Upcoming Harvest Celebration edition scheduled for 2025.
Charity visit to Ikoyi Correctional Centre with gifts for inmates.
Charity outreach to elderly and indigent Cathedral members.
Christmas gifts to Patrons, Patronesses, and Priests.
Monthly sponsorship of refreshments at Cathedral vigils.

YOUTH CLUB!

UNITED IN CHRIST!

Tunde Banwo
15th July, 2024