Congratulations to Sr Josephine Aboagye on Her Graduation

We joyfully congratulate Sr Josephine Aboagye, OLA, on her recent graduation from Maynooth University, where she was awarded a Diploma in Youth Ministry and Spirituality.

Sr Josephine is from Côte d’Ivoire, born to Ghanaian parents, and has served in mission across West Africa and Ireland. She often explains that where she comes from, the first question people ask is “What’s the news?” It’s an invitation to share stories and connect. That same warmth and openness have marked every step of her missionary journey.

After earning a degree in civil law, she joined the OLA postulate and, following her first profession, was missioned ad extra to Ghana. Her first community was in Hwidiem, where she taught French and religion at the primary and junior secondary schools while helping to run the canteen. Two years later, she was sent to Benin, serving in Parakou in the north and Ouidah in the south. There she taught in Catholic schools, supported children at the OLA orphanage, and became active in catechesis, choir, youth ministry, and vocational animation. Her ministry has consistently centred on education, pastoral care, and the empowerment of women and young people, helping each to grow in confidence, faith, and dignity.

Returning to Côte d’Ivoire, she became involved in pastoral and social ministry in Biétry. Alongside her community service, she completed a course in Gender and the Protection of Women and contributed to the OLA women’s centre, where women learn sewing and receive adult education. These years deepened her passion for women’s empowerment and inclusion, work she describes as both humbling and hope-filled.

In October 2021, she came to Ireland to join the community in Ardfoyle, Cork. She still remembers the sisters who helped her settle in during those first months of pandemic restrictions—finding her way through the city, appointments, and vaccine queues with patience and kindness. Today she contributes to pastoral ministry with African migrants and refugees in Balbriggan, bringing with her the same compassion and practical faith that have guided her throughout her missionary life.

Reflecting on her journey, Sr Josephine gives thanks for the sisters who have supported her along the way. Studying at Maynooth offered an opportunity to reflect more deeply on the faith that sustains her ministry and to strengthen the spiritual foundations that underpin her service.

Sr Josephine brings warmth, dedication, and a joyful spirit to all she does. Her achievement at Maynooth is a reflection of her commitment to faith and service, and we join her in giving thanks for this milestone.

We thank God for her commitment and for the example she gives through her quiet dedication, and we extend our warmest congratulations on this well-earned achievement.

Congratulations, Sr Josephine! Your journey continues to inspire and remind us of the beauty of mission lived with faith, humility, and joy.