The Pink Sisters of Togo: A Sacred Mission of Perpetual Adoration
Share
The Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters, affectionately known as the Pink Sisters due to their distinctive rose-colored habits, embody a life of prayer, contemplation, and unceasing love for Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. Their presence in Lomé, Togo, is not only spiritually significant but also historically remarkable, as it marks the only African country where all three congregations founded by St. Arnold Janssen serve together.
Who Are the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters (SSPSAP)?
The SSPSAP, short for Servarum Spiritus Sancti de Adoratione Perpetua (Servants of the Holy Spirit of Perpetual Adoration), is a contemplative Catholic religious institute devoted to the profound mission of perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Distinguished by their rose-colored habits symbolizing joy and the love of the Holy Spirit, the Pink Sisters dedicate their entire lives to prayer, especially silent adoration before Christ in the Eucharist.
A Historic Mission in Togo: Monastère Du Saint-Esprit
In 1997, after years of invitations and discernment, the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters embarked on a significant journey, establishing their first African mission in Lomé, Togo. This new convent, named Monastère Du Saint-Esprit (Monastery of the Holy Spirit), marked a pivotal moment for the congregation and for the spiritual landscape of the region. Their arrival fulfilled the vision of expanding St. Arnold’s spiritual family to Africa.
Fr. Marian Schwark, the Late Father Dieter Skweres, SVD, and the late Archbishop Philippe Fanoko Kpodzro of Lomé played instrumental roles in inviting the Sisters, recognizing Africa's profound need for prayer and the unique spiritual contribution of the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters.
The Sisters’ mission began humbly. With support from local Church leaders and lay faithful, including assistance from clergy such as the late Archbishop Philippe Fanoko Kpodzro, they planted the seeds of perpetual adoration in Togo, starting in a temporary home adjacent to Radio Maria. The government later donated land for their monastery on the condition that the Sisters also provide a small infirmary to serve the local community.
The cornerstone blessing in 2001 and the dedication of the new chapel and convent in 2004 marked milestones in Togo’s Catholic life. The Adoration Chapel, described by the late Archbishop as a Cenacle, a Mt. Tabor, and a Jacob’s Well, quickly became a cherished spiritual oasis.
A Personal Connection: The MEK Initiative Story
For The MEK Initiative, this mission holds deep personal meaning. Growing up in Lomé, my faith journey unfolded within the vibrant Catholic community. I was baptized, received First Communion, and was confirmed at Cristo Risorto Parish in Xedzranawoe, where my mother was a prominent parish leader.
Beyond her service as a leader of the Merciful Jesus Congregation, she hosted programs on Radio Maria Togo, taught English at a respected Catholic school, and was instrumental in helping the newly arrived Pink Sisters adapt to life in Togo, especially in learning the local language, French.
As a result, from the Sisters' arrival in 1997 until 2008, I served as an altar server at the Monastère Du Saint-Esprit. Those formative years instilled in me a profound appreciation for the Sisters' quiet yet powerful mission.
Supporting the Pink Sisters Through Our Handcrafted Rosary
At The MEK Initiative, we are honored to offer handcrafted wooden Rosaries produced by the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters. Every Rosary purchased directly supports their monastery and mission in Togo, sustaining their life of prayer and perpetual adoration.
By choosing this Rosary, you are not only deepening your own devotion but also standing with the Pink Sisters as they intercede for the world—a beautiful way to unite personal prayer with the global mission of the Church.
Join Us in Supporting Perpetual Adoration
We invite you to experience the grace of this sacred connection. Purchase a handcrafted Rosary today and be part of the ongoing spiritual legacy in Togo, within the "new homeland for Christ," as Pope John Paul II so lovingly described Africa.
Together, let us honor Christ in the Blessed Sacrament and uplift those who keep vigil for the world.