January 10, 2026, Nsoatre – In a moving homily delivered at the HHCJ Novitiate in Nsoatre in the Catholic Diocese of Sunyani, Rev. Fr. Cyprian Kuupol, SVD Provincial Superior, called on the HHCJ Sisters to “acknowledge yourself, accept yourself, and recognize others” as essential elements of spiritual growth and communal harmony.
Fr. Kuupol was addressing the Sisters during their Chapter Enlightenment, a gathering focused on deepening their spiritual lives and fostering unity within their community. The homily centred on the themes of humility, self-acceptance, and the need to celebrate both one’s own journey and the contributions of others.
He emphasized the importance of re-echoing the messages of their Chapter Acts, advising the Sisters to personalize these acts, accept them, and live them daily.
He also reminded them to give thanks to God for the unique apostolate entrusted to them. He reflected on the mystery of the baby Jesus, born at Christmas, and invited the Sisters to reflect on the deeper meaning of the Gospel readings following the baptism of Jesus.
In his reflection on the Gospel of Mark, Fr. Kuupol highlighted the humility of John the Baptist, who, while in prison, acknowledged Jesus as the Messiah.
He pointed out that John’s words helped define the difference between him and Jesus, encouraging the Sisters to embrace their own identity with the same humility. “It’s always good for us to accept ourselves and acknowledge others,” he said.
Drawing parallels with the transition to a new administration within the religious community, Fr. Kuupol warned against the temptation to compare oneself to others or to covet roles that do not belong to us.
He urged the Sisters to avoid jealousy and competition, advocating for the appreciation of both their own gifts and those of others.
“John admitted that he is not the Messiah,” said Fr. Kuupol. “He must decrease while Christ increases. How many of us are able to be humble enough to let others lead while we follow?” He further pointed out that many times, instead of humility, jealousy creeps into communities, making it harder for individuals to embrace their true calling.
Fr. Kuupol urged the Sisters to support one another in both prayer and action, particularly when a sister falls into sin. He reminded them of the responsibility to pray for each other, stressing that gossip, jealousy, and any sin against their vows are obstacles to spiritual progress. “These little sins, like gossip and jealousy, prevent us from being humble and from fully embracing where we are in our journey,” he said.
He also reflected on the importance of prayer in the religious life, encouraging the Sisters to consciously pray for their community. “Do we make the effort to pray for our sisters, or do we focus on their shortcomings? Many times, we celebrate our own stubbornness and spread negativity,” he said.
Fr. Kuupol challenged the Sisters to reflect on their actions and attitudes, urging them to rid themselves of jealousy and competition. He reminded them that true growth comes from knowing oneself, and that grace abounds where sin is acknowledged and overcome. “When sin abounds, grace abounds,” he affirmed.
In closing, he called on the Sisters to stand firm in their identity, celebrate their unique contributions, and support one another in prayer and joy. “Pray to God to know yourself,” he said, “so that you may be able to celebrate yourself and others in the Lord.”
The Chapter Enlightenment concluded with a Eucharistic celebration, as the Sisters prayed for renewed faith and the strength to live out the teachings shared by Fr. Kuupol.
The event served as a time of reflection and spiritual renewal for the HHCJ community, reinforcing the values of humility, mutual respect, and personal growth.
Sr Emmanuella Dakurah, HHCJ. (Sister Communicator)
