The Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus (HHCJ), Ghana Province, officially opened its 9th Provincial Chapter with a solemn Mass at Nsoatre on Monday, October 20, 2025.
The liturgy was presided over by the Most Rev. Gabriel Kumordji, Bishop of the Keta-Akatsi Diocese, who also served as the homilist..
In his homily, Bishop Kumordji reminded Sisters that the Chapter is not a mere administrative meeting but a sacred assembly rooted in deep spiritual significance.
“This is not just a gathering; it is a sacred gathering inspired by the Holy Spirit,” he emphasized. “The Chapter is a moment of grace a time for reflection, prayer, discernment, and spiritual renewal.”
Drawing inspiration from the day’s scriptural readings, the Bishop highlighted the importance of humility, service, and inner transformation.
Referencing the Gospel’s message, “A man’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions,” he cautioned against greed and self-interest, urging delegates to approach the Chapter with a spirit of selflessness and unity.
“Chapter is not a platform for power struggles or personal ambition,” he said. “It is for the good of the entire congregation. To lead is to serve, not to lord it over others.”
He further urged the sisters to return to the spiritual foundation of their congregation and live out the charism given to them by the Holy Spirit.
Citing Romans 12, he called on the HHCJ community to “be transformed by the renewal of your minds” and to embody the humility of Christ as portrayed in Philippians 2.
“Do not come with the attitude of ‘I know it all,’” he warned. “We are here to listen to God, to one another, and to the Spirit’s promptings.”
Bishop Kumordji commended the leadership of the HHCJ congregation for the spiritual and logistical preparations that led to the Chapter. He encouraged the faithful to support the sisters in prayer as they discern a roadmap for the next three years of mission and ministry.
“This Chapter will be a guiding light for the province,” he said. “The Church exists for evangelization, and so too must every religious congregation. May the Lord continue to perfect His work through you.”
The Chapter will continue in the coming days with deliberations, discernments, and decisions aimed at deepening the mission and witness of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus across the Ghana Province.
By Sr Emmanuella Dakurah, HHCJ
