History and Ministries: Togo, Africa
In 2024, our general chapter made a decision to open a new community of Missionary Benedictine Sisters in Togo, West Africa.
Togo is located in the region of western Africa that was known as the “slave coast” because of the many Africans that were taken from that region.
Thirty years ago, a group of young women inspired by the monastic way of life reached out for help. They had many challenges, but their numbers continued to grow. The sisters began constructing several buildings including the convent, a facility for their apostolates with malnourished mothers and children, a reception hut, and a small shop.
Missionary Benedictine Sisters from Tanzania and Kenya will be helping them to get established. Several young women have expressed interest in joining the congregation and becoming sisters.
May 2026 the Togo Mission was officially opened with the installation of Sister Lusina Ng'eny as the first Superior of the Togo Community.
Thank You from Togo Community:
Dear Sr. Gabrielle and Sisters,
Thank you for being a significant part of this beginning in Togo. Through your donation from the 2025 Christmas drive, we were able to install 20 solar panels, now the community’s only source of electricity and water; renovate the convent with the addition of a kitchen and laundry area; purchase chairs and kneelers for the chapel; and provide the essential appliances needed for daily life. We are deeply grateful for your generosity.
Togo is one of the poorest countries in Africa. It is a small nation, and the village where we live is smaller still. Yet the sisters continue to embrace each challenge one step at a time, trusting that God reveals the path forward each day. We remain filled with hope and faith that this new presence will become a source of growth, and blessing for both the Church and the people we are called to serve.
After a month in Togo helping prepare the convent and accompanying the community as it begins its life together, I will be leaving for Rome the day after tomorrow. I do so with gratitude, hope, and confidence in what God is beginning here.
Once again, on behalf of Sr. Lusina, Sr. Eveline, Sr. Francoise, and Sr. Fideline, thank you for your generosity, support, and care. May God reward you abundantly and continue to bless you for helping bring this mission to life.
Gratefully,
Sr. Mary Thomas OSB

