The Sisters of Mary Immaculate (SMI) Congregation proudly honoured one of their own members as she celebrated a remarkable milestone – her Silver Jubilee.
This joyous occasion marked 25 years of dedicated service, devotion, and commitment to her religious vocation.
In keeping with a cherished tradition, the Sisters of Mary Immaculate Congregation organized a jubilee Mass to honour Sisters who have reached significant milestones: 25 and 50 years of dedicated service within the Congregation.
This year’s celebration was held at the Congregation’s Mother House at Daffiama, Upper West Region on February 3 2025.
This year’s jubilee celebration honoured the remarkable Sr. Claudia Jatoe, a native of Chaan, in the Immaculate Conception Parish, Kaleo, within the Wa Diocese of Ghana.
Sr. Claudia Jatoe was born in Tarkpo, a small village in the Wa Diocese of Ghana. She began her educational journey at Tarkpo Elementary School near Kaleo and later attended Wa Senior Secondary School (WASEC), where she obtained her West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in 1995.
Growing up in a devout Catholic family, with her father serving as a catechist, Sr. Claudia’s interest in religious life deepened over time. Despite initial self-doubt and feelings of unworthiness, she was encouraged by her family to pursue her calling.
In January 1997, Sr. Claudia embarked on her religious formation, completing her initial formation in August 2000. With a passion for serving the sick, she combined pastoral apostolate with academic studies, laying the groundwork for her future ministry in healthcare.
In 2003, she was enrolled into the Community Health School in Jirapa, where she completed her training.
She later gained admission to study General Nursing at the Jirapa Nursing School, further expanding her skills and knowledge.
Driven to excel in her field, Sr. Claudia undertook the Physician Assistant course at the Kintampo Nursing School, equipping herself with advanced expertise to serve others more effectively.
After successfully completing her Physician Assistant course in September 2019, Sr. Claudia applied her expertise in various communities, serving with compassion and dedication.
Her assignments took her to Tumu, Asankrekuawa, Jirapa, St. Lucy Polyclinic, Tamale and Martyrs of Uganda Polyclinic, Bole.
The Silver Jubilee celebration of Sr. Claud
ia Jatoe was solemnly marked with a Eucharistic celebration, presided over by the Bishop of Wa, the Most Rev. Francis Bomansaa.
The occasion was further enriched by the presence of eleven concelebrat
ing Priests from the Wa Diocese and beyond, Religious Men and Women.
In her welcome address, the Superior General of the Sisters of Mary Immaculate (SMI) Congregation, Sr. Christiana Pogbeyir, warmly acknowledged Sr. Claudia and expressed the congregation’s deep affection and appreciation for her.
The Superior highlighted Sr. Claudia’s selfless dedication to serving the sick and the people of God.
The Superior also noted that February 3rd holds special significance for the congregation, as it marks the feast day of their founder, Bishop Oscar Morin.
Additionally, it was a day to express gratitude to God for the Sisters who have reached significant milestones, including 25 and 50 years of service.
The Superior warmly invited everyone present to join the SMI Congregation in celebrating Sr. Claudia’s remarkable milestone, honoring her 25 years of dedicated service to the Lord and the congregation.
In his sermon, Bishop Francis Bomansaa invited Sr. Claudia to summarize the theme of the celebration in a symbolic and personal way, drawing inspiration from the Magnificat in Luke 1:39-55.
Handing her the microphone, Sr. Claudia emerged with a lantern, which she explained represents the light that guides her path.
She prayed that this light would radiate to all those she encounters.
Sr. Claudia then sang her own Magnificat, titled “Magnificat of Sr. Claudia Jatoe”, which contained the following heartfelt words:
“Claudia, glorify the Name of the Lord,
Exalt the Name of Jesus.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
For He has done great things in store for me.
His praise shall continually be in my mouth,
For the Lord is my strength and my salvation.”
Taking the microphone again, Bishop Francis reflected on the two readings, noting that they are both hymns of praise and thanksgiving that likely inspired Sr. Claudia’s own song.
He highlighted that both readings emphasize complete trust, joy, faithfulness, and steadfastness.
Bishop Francis continued, “In the midst of challenges, Mary chose to praise God, putting Him first in her life. Similarly, in the second reading from Isaiah 12:1-6, we see God remaining faithful to His people despite their unfaithfulness.
This faithfulness brings hope to the people of Israel, inspiring a song of praise.
The Bishop shared a message of encouragement with the congregation: “As believers, there is always hope in every situation. No condition is permanent.”
He emphasized that Sr. Claudia’s life is a testament to God’s intervention, and encouraged all believers to seek and acknowledge God’s presence in their lives.
“To be steadfast means to believe in something you can rely on, something you can hope in,” the Bishop explained.
He pointed out that the central theme of both readings is God, who is seen as the source of salvation by both Isaiah and Mary. This realization fills them with gratitude and hope in the Lord, acknowledging all that God has done and will continue to do.
Bishop Francis then turned to Sr. Claudia, reminding her that Mary’s Magnificat was not sung in a moment of ease or comfort.
Rather, it was sung in the face of challenge and uncertainty, as Mary faced the stigma of being pregnant outside of marriage.
Bishop Francis reminded the congregation of the significance of the Year of Jubilee, emphasizing it as a second chance for spiritual growth, renewal, and grasping new opportunities.
He reflected on Mary’s Magnificat, highlighting her ability to magnify God’s presence in her life.
The Bishop encouraged the congregation to emulate Mary’s example by sharing their own stories, without shame or embarrassment, and acknowledging God’s presence in their lives.
“Only when we own our stories can we truly see that God is for us,” he emphasized.
The Bishop then issued a challenge to the congregation: “Create your own Magnificat, and express gratitude to God for the blessings in your life. Remember, those who fail to thank God for small things will struggle to thank Him for greater blessings.”
In conclusion, Bishop Francis thanked Sr. Claudia for inspiring the congregation to reflect on the importance of gratitude.
He left the congregation with thought-provoking questions for reflection:
– Who are the family members and friends who have been a source of encouragement in my life, and how can I thank God for them?
– What positive changes have occurred in my life recently (years, months, weeks, days), and how can I show gratitude for these blessings?
– Think of someone who challenges you; can you find reasons to thank God for that person or relationship?
– What or who would I greatly miss if they were absent from my life, and how can I express gratitude for their presence?
In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, Sr. Claudia thanked God for his boundless mercies and love. She also extended her sincere appreciation to:
The Superior General for guidance and support
Bishop Francis for officiating the celebration
The retreat preacher for inspiring reflections
All the distinguished guests, family and friends present on this special occasion.
By Sr. Juliana Ayinpoka Atuuna, SMI, (Sister Communicator)
