Sr. Mary Baptista Desbordes of the Handmaids of the Holy Child of Jesus (HHCJ) Congregation has been honoured with a Citation by the St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Society for her dedicated services to humanity.
The Citation given by the Sunyani Deanery, of the Catholic Diocese of Sunyani, was in recognition of Sr. Desbordes’ outstanding and selfless service to God, the Church, and the Society.
The award was presented on July 12, 2026 at St. Theodore Catholic Church, Barracks, Sunyani, during a special ceremony attended by members of the St. Theresa Society, Clergy, Religious, and the faithful.
The prestigious recognition celebrated the remarkable life and ministry of the 90-year-old Religious Sister, whose unwavering commitment, love, unity, and dedication have inspired generations of Catholics and contributed immensely to the growth of the St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Society.
In the citation, the Society acknowledged Sr. Mary Baptista’s many years of faithful service, describing her life as a shining example of humility, sacrifice, and steadfast devotion to the mission of Christ.
Her contributions, the Citation noted, have strengthened not only the Society but also the wider Church community.
Quoting 1 Timothy 5:17, “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honour”—the citation expressed profound appreciation for her invaluable sacrifices and enduring legacy of faith.
The Society also prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Sr. Mary Baptista, asking that she be granted good health, peace, and joy, and that the intercession of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus would continue to guide and protect her.
The recognition serves as a fitting tribute to a woman whose many decades of Religious life have been marked by faithful service, prayer, and dedication to the people of God.
Her life continues to inspire younger generations to embrace the values of faith, humility, and selfless service.
Sr. Mary Baptista Desbordes, HHCJ, expressed gratitude for the honour and thanked the St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Society for the recognition, encouraging members to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to serving God and the Church.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt congratulations and prayers for God’s continued grace upon Sr. Mary Baptista as she continues to be a source of inspiration to the Catholic community and beyond.
By Sr. Emmanuella Dakurah, HHCJ (CATHOLIC SISTER COMMUNICATORS NETWORK-GHANA, CASCON-GH)
