Tertiary Sisters Inaugurate Three New Provinces

The Tertiary Sisters of St. Francis (TSSF), have inaugurated three newly created provinces, namely; St Francis; St. Clare and Maria Hueber. The landmark event which also saw the installation of the new Provincial Leadership Teams for the new provinces, brought together many priests, consecrated men and women and lay faithful, to bear witness in a Pontifical Mass celebrated by Monsignor George Nkuo, the Bishop of Kumbo Diocese and assisted by Monsignor Emmanuel Bushu, the Emeritus Bishop of Buea Diocese.

ln her welcome speech, Sr. Theodosia Baki, Superior General of the TSSF, explained that the creation of the new provinces was a mandate to the General Administration during the 2019 General Chapter in Brixen, Italy which was meant to decentralize leadership for effective mission, making it more accessible and ensuring that each sister has the opportunity to fully realize and live out her potential.

She further rendered gratitude to the outgoing Administration headed by Sr. Gloria Kenyuyfoon for courageously navigating through the challenging times of COVID 19 and the Anglophone crisis within their four year reign. Sr. Gloria Kenyuyfoon on her part responded in gratitude with the Magnificat after which she handed over the Provincial Seal. The Superior General then read out the Decree of Erection. After renewing their vows, the new Provincial Superiors; Sr. Olivia Waika for St. Francis Province, Sr. Angela Ngube for Maria Heuber Province and Sr. Loretta Yekwa for St. Clare Province then took a commitment to guide the Provinces according to the symbols handed to them; the Gospel, the Rule, Constitution and Code of Canon Law and in collaboration with the General Administration and the Church represented by the Diocesan Bishop.

The members of TSSF family responded by promising their support and collaboration to the PLTs. Bishop George in his homily commended the TSSF for this show of growth and fruitfulness after 53 years. ” He emphasized to the TSSF never to lose sight of the fact that they are three yet one. “Sisters, build communities motivated by the power of love and not love of power” ..he exhorted.

The New PLTs represented by Sr. Angela Ngube, rendered a vote of thanks to all acknowledging with humility the graces God gives to those whom He chooses to call. The celebration was marked by very colorful animation by the different Provinces from the entrance procession to the recession.