Honoring 25 years of Sr. Gertrude, 40 years of Sr. Olivia, and 392 years of the Daughters of Charity Congregationโs mission.
On Saturday, 29th November 2025, the Daughters of Charity sisters at the St. Louise de Marillac Community in Kumasi, Ghana, came together to commemorate three significant milestones.
The celebration honored the silver jubilee of Sr. Gertrude Barinem Gima, DC, marking her 25 years of religious life; the 40th anniversary of Sr. Olivia Idongesit Umoh, DC as a sister; and the 392nd anniversary of the foundation of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul congregation.
The festivities began with a solemn Mass presided over by Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, Metropolitan Archbishop of Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi. He was joined by eight priests from Kumasi and across Ghana, along with about thirty Catholic sisters representing various congregations. Their presence added joy and solidarity to the occasion.
Also in attendance were staff from Safe-Child Advocacy, St. Louise Vocational Training Centre, and St. Vincent de Paul Day Care, as well as collaborators of the Daughters of Charity, parishioners from St. Paulโs Catholic Church, Appiadu, and numerous well-wishers.
During the Mass, the Archbishop warmly congratulated the congregation, praising the sisters for their impactful service, particularly in Ghana. He highlighted the remarkable contributions of Sr. Olivia, who serves as Director of Safe-Child Advocacy, National Coordinator of ConPAHTโTalitha Kum Ghana (an anti-human trafficking network of 25 congregations and 5 NGOs), and Director for the prevention of domestic violence within the Archdiocese. He described her as hardworking, selfless, and humble, noting her invaluable role during the fourth synod of the Archdiocese.
The Archbishop also commended Sr. Gertrude Barinem Gima for her dedication. Currently Sister Servant of the St. Louise de Marillac Community and Administrator of the St. Louise Vocational Training Centre at Appiadu, she is tirelessly training young girls in skills such as dressmaking, hairdressing, and catering since her arrival in Ghana.
Sr. Bernadette Uko, DC, the representative of Ghana Mission of the Daughters of Charity,
reflected on the congregationโs 392-year legacy and conveyed congratulatory messages from the Provincial Superior and the Province of Nigeria. She thanked all the sisters and praised them on their dedicated services.
The celebration was enriched with Ghanaian cultural displays showcasing traditional music and dance, as well as a Vietnamese dance performance that added an international flavor to the festivities. These performances highlighted the diversity and unity of the community, making the day even more memorable.
The sisters received gifts from fellow sisters, staff, and well-wishers, deepening the spirit of joy and thanksgiving.
The celebration was enriched with Ghanaian cultural displays showcasing traditional music and dance, as well as a Vietnamese dance performance that added an international flavor to the festivities. These performances highlighted the diversity and unity of the community, making the day even more memorable.
The triple anniversary was not only a moment of thanksgiving but also a powerful reminder of the enduring mission of the Daughters of Charity: to serve with humility, simplicity, and love.ย
May these milestones inspire continued dedication to uplifting the vulnerable and spreading hope wherever the sisters are present.
Highlights from the celebration can be viewed in the gallery below.
Video of the celebration would be on our Youtube page at: https://www.youtube.com/@safe-childadvocacy3005 soon
