Handmaids of the Divine Redeemer Sisters Launch 70th Anniversary in Accra
The Handmaids of the Divine Redeemer (HDR) Sisters officially launched their 70th anniversary celebrations and fundraising programme on Saturday, 7 March 2026, at the Christ the King Parish Hall in Accra. The event commenced with the celebration of Holy Mass at 10:00 a.m.
The occasion brought together members of the HDR Sisters, priests and religious, and several distinguished guests, including Chief Kufour, Chief Executive Officer of the African Regent Hotel; Hon. Betty Mould Iddrisu, Member of the Council of State, who was represented by Lawyer Mrs. Sarah Anku, a private legal practitioner and Founder and Managing Partner of SN Anku & Associates; Mr. Francis Kobina Addison, the Guest Speaker; Hon. Dr. Francis Xavier Kojo Sosu, Member of Parliament for the Madina Constituency; and Togbe Adze II, Dufia of the Fodome Traditional Area. The gathering marked the official beginning of the congregation’s 70th (Platinum) anniversary celebrations.
Most Rev. Anthony Narh Asare, Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, served as the main celebrant for the Holy Mass. In his homily, Bishop Asare encouraged the faithful to reflect on the theme of forgiveness, drawing attention to the “prodigal father” in the Gospel. He urged those present to cultivate the spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation, especially during the Lenten season. According to him, just as the father of the prodigal son continually waited in hope for his son’s return, Jesus is always ready to welcome humanity back with mercy and love.
During the liturgy, the Superior General and members of the council presented candles to Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin Mary, seeking her maternal intercession for the congregation and the anniversary celebrations.
Speaking during the launch, the Superior General of the Handmaids of the Divine Redeemer Sisters, Sr. Paula Nkansa Otchere, reflected on the journey of the congregation. She stated that “what began as a small seed of hope has blossomed into a vibrant mission shaped by prayer, sacrifice, and unshakable trust in divine providence.” She emphasized that the anniversary offers an opportunity to honour the founder and the visionary Sisters whose dedication laid the foundations of the congregation. The launch, she noted, marks the beginning of a year-long pilgrimage of thanksgiving, reflection, and renewal. She concluded by entrusting the anniversary year to the maternal guidance of Mary, the Mother of the Divine Redeemer.
The Chairman for the occasion, Chief Kufour, CEO of the African Regent Hotel and an alumnus of Christ the King International School, congratulated the HDR Sisters for their remarkable contributions to the Church and society. In his remarks, he noted that the congregation exemplifies the true mission of the Catholic Church, which extends beyond doctrine and worship to building community and promoting love for one’s neighbour. He further commended the vision of Bishop Joseph Oliver Bowers, who founded the HDR congregation, stating that for 70 years the Sisters have made a profound and impactful contribution to society. He also observed that the Catholic Church remains one of the most significant religious institutions in Ghana, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.
Delivering the keynote address, the Guest Speaker, Mr. Francis Kobina Addison, described the 70-year milestone as a testament to unwavering faith and service. He highlighted that the anniversary celebrates seven decades of “prayers whispered in chapels before dawn, hands extended to the poor, the sick, the lonely and the forgotten, and hearts offered completely to God so that humanity may encounter His mercy.” He added that the anniversary theme reflects the very essence of Christian mission, noting that for seventy years the Handmaids have faithfully embodied this spirit through their apostolic works.
Solidarity messages were also delivered by several dignitaries. Hon. Dr. Francis Xavier Kojo Sosu congratulated the congregation for its dedicated service, which he noted has benefitted him and many others in Ghana. He pledged to donate in support of the congregation. In her message, Dame Dr. Mrs. Mary Anane-Mensah commended the HDR congregation for remaining strong and relevant after seventy years. As a beneficiary of Catholic education, she recalled how she was nurtured with love through the guidance of the HDR Sisters. Togbe Adze II also praised the resilience of the congregation and commended the Sisters for faithfully living out the charism and vision of their founder, Bishop Joseph Oliver Bowers, particularly in the education of the girl child and the empowerment of women.
A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the 70th anniversary logo, which followed a cultural performance.
Also present at the ceremony were guests, past students of St. Ann Vocational Institute, Nuaso, pupils from Mother Providencial Catholic Basic School, Adenta, the QIC Choir, the Traditional Krobo dancers (Klama), staff of the HDR Foundation, and numerous well-wishers.
Sr. Alberta Rabbles
Handmaids of the Divine Redeemer
