In a powerful homily delivered at the close of the HHCJ Sisters’ Chapter Delegates Retreat, Rev. Fr. Isaac Amponsah Boateng, a Ghanaian Spiritan Priest reminded the Sisters that “even if we are crosses, we are gifted crosses from God.”
The homily was delivered during a Eucharistic celebration at the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus (HHCJ) Novitiate at Nsoatre in the Diocese of Sunyani on Saturday, August 30, 2025, marking the conclusion of the retreat.
Drawing inspiration from the day’s readings and the Parable of the Talents, Fr. Boateng encouraged the Sisters to recognise and embrace their God given gifts, rather than focusing on their limitations.
He advised the Sisters saying, “We are not to be an impediment to what we are able to do,” he stated.
“What you are not capable of doing, leave it and concentrate on what you are capable of,” he stated.
Referencing the servant in the Gospel who buried his one talent, Fr. Boateng warned against laziness, fear, and the tendency to compare oneself with others.
“The master gave according to each one’s ability,” he said, adding that “But the behavior of the one who had the least teaches us that empty barrels make the most noise. When you have nothing doing, you tend to defend yourself by blaming others.”
He urged the Sisters, including the Novices, to avoid distractions such as gossip, which he described as a symptom of spiritual laziness.
“Gossip begins with the laziness in you,” he cautioned, advising that “Instead of concentrating, you’ll find yourself in gossip if you refuse to be industrious.”
Fr. Boateng encouraged the Sisters to build on what they had received during their profession and formation, emphasising that each stage of religious life brings new responsibilities and graces.
Turning to the Novices, he said, “Open your hearts for formation as novices that is your talent God has given you at this moment.”
“Everybody owes another love, and you need to pay it that is the talent God has given you,” stressed.
Fr Amponsah continued, “Your talents are not yours. They are God’s gift to you. As you use them, use them to serve the One who gave them to you. And as you use them to serve others, you become more joyful.”
He reminded the Sisters that all gifts came from God and must be used for service, not self-glorification.
The homily served as a stirring reminder of the spiritual journey ahead for the HHCJ sisters and a call to live lives rooted in purpose, humility, and love.
By Sr. Emmanuella Dakurah, HHCJ (Sister Communicator).
