The Transformative Mission of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus in Africa
The Congregation of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus is a beacon of light in the realm of education in Africa. Founded by the Servant of God, Mother Mary Charles Magdalen Walker, an Irish Sister of Charity, this congregation is dedicated to the holistic development of children through the establishment and management of several schools across the continent.
Meet Sister Emmanuella Dakurah, HHCJ
Arriving in Nigeria in 1923 at the invitation of Bishop Joseph Shanahan, CSSp of the Vicariate of Southern Nigeria, West Africa, Mother Mary Charles had a vision to evangelize and educate women. Her tireless efforts as an educator, medical personnel, catechist, and social worker laid the foundation for what would become a profound legacy of service.
An Indigenous Religious Congregation
Mother Mary Charles’ dream of an indigenous Religious Congregation became a reality when four young women she taught in St. Joseph’s Convent School, Calabar, Nigeria, expressed their desire to become sisters in 1931. Thus, the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus were born. The Congregation was formally established in April 1937 and elevated to a Congregation of Pontifical Right in 1971.
Over the years, the Handmaids have grown into a diverse and international community, with members hailing from Nigeria, Cameroon, Togo, Ghana, Sierra Leone, England, and Kenya. Today, their presence extends across various countries around the world.
Education as a Mission
The Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus are committed to transforming lives through their dedicated service and apostolic ministry with a special focus on the poor, women, and children. Education plays a central role in their mission, with the sisters being recognized for their passion for teaching and their dedication to the growth and development of their students.
Embracing a holistic approach to education, the Handmaids aim to nurture the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. They view each child as a unique reflection of God and strive to instill values, discipline, and academic excellence in their students.
Sisters as Teachers, Catechists, and Apostles
In their educational endeavors, the Handmaid sisters have adopted the Montessori teaching method, inspired by the legacy of their foundress. The sisters understand the profound impact of quality education on children’s lives and are dedicated to providing a nurturing and empowering environment for their students.
Following in the footsteps of Mother Charles, the Handmaids see themselves as not just educators but also as catechists and apostles, carrying out Christ’s ministry of teaching and guidance in their diverse schools.
Ancilla Schools in Ghana
In Ghana, the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus are renowned for their “Ancilla Schools,” which offer education at various levels from nursery to university. Their commitment to holistic education goes beyond academic excellence, focusing on preparing students for the challenges of life.
With a special emphasis on serving children with disabilities and those in underserved communities, the sisters extend their ministry to provide support, resources, and hope to those in need. Their work is not just about educating minds but also about nurturing hearts and hands for a better future.
As they continue to follow the vision of their foundress, the Handmaids see the young ones they educate as the future of the Church and the world. Through their unwavering dedication to education and service, they are shaping the next generation of leaders and changemakers in Africa and beyond.
