Walking Together in Hope: AOSK Holds its General Assembly 2026
The Association of Sisterhoods of Kenya (AOSK) held its Annual General Meeting, 2026, bringing together Major Superiors, Delegate superiors and representatives from member congregations. Guided by the theme, “Walking Together in Hope: Strengthening Mission Sustainability and Resilience for AOSK’s Future,” the Assembly offered an opportunity to reflect on the changing realities facing religious life while reaffirming the commitment of Catholic Sisters to serve the Church and society with hope and resilience.
Official Opening
In her opening address, Sr. Josephine invited delegates to embrace the Assembly theme as a call to renew their confidence in God’s providence and recommit themselves to walking together in faith and hope. Reflecting on AOSK’s 64-year journey, she described the General Assembly as more than an annual gathering, but a sacred moment of encounter, accountability, discernment and renewal.
Drawing inspiration from Romans 15:13, she reminded the delegates that hope is not passive optimism but an active, courageous and faith-filled commitment to Christ’s mission. She challenged Catholic Sisters to remain prophetic witnesses in society by defending human dignity, promoting justice, caring for creation and responding to the needs of the poor and the marginalized.
She further called on member congregations to strengthen formation for future generations of women religious and embrace synodal leadership characterized by listening, participation, accountability and shared responsibility.
The Assembly’s opening Mass was celebrated by Rt. Rev. Henry Odonya, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitale. The bishop affirmed the important role of AOSK in shaping the future of religious life. He noted that as demographic and social realities continue to change, the association remains a vital platform for ensuring that the vision and mission of religious congregations endure for generations to come.
Drawing from this year’s theme, the bishop said the Assembly is an opportunity for congregations to come together, share experiences and discern the way forward in unity. Walking together, he said, is the path to building a stronger and more resilient future for religious life in Kenya.
While acknowledging the many challenges facing religious institutes, Bishop Odonya reminded delegates that challenges also present opportunities. He hailed the contributions and works by Sister congregations in the AOSK units across the dioceses.
AGM Structure
The General Assembly featured a rich programme of plenary sessions and panel discussions that encouraged dialogue on issues shaping the future of religious life.
The AGM featured discussions focused on Formation for Mission in the 21st Century: The Future of Religious Life in a Changing World. Special attention was given to Chemichemi Ya Uzima College, one of AOSK’s flagship institutions, with participants emphasizing the need to strengthen its academic and formation programmes so that it continues to respond effectively to the emerging needs of Catholic Sisters and the wider Church. They also reflected on Synodal Leadership and Collaborative Governance, exploring leadership models that promote participation, transparency, accountability and shared responsibility. The discussions highlighted the importance of building inclusive institutions where dialogue and collaboration strengthen decision-making and mission effectiveness.
Another important panel centred on Strengthening the Prophetic Voice of Catholic Sisters as Agents of Social Transformation. Panelists reflected on the enduring contribution of women religious in education, healthcare, peacebuilding, advocacy, environmental stewardship and pastoral ministry, while encouraging one another to continue responding courageously to contemporary social challenges.
The programme also included a session on Canon Law, providing participants with practical insights into canonical issues affecting religious institutes and strengthening their understanding of governance within consecrated life.
Address from ASEC
The Assembly featured presentation by Sr. Draru Mary Cecilia, LSMIG, Ph.D., Executive Director of the African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC).
Drawing from ASEC’s work in ten African countries, she challenged delegates to embrace continuous learning, invest in leadership development and strengthen institutional capacity to respond effectively to the changing needs of society.
She underscored the value of partnerships in advancing the mission of Catholic Sisters and emphasized that education remains a powerful tool for strengthening the prophetic voice of women religious across Africa.
Her address reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation and capacity building in ensuring that Catholic Sisters continue to provide transformative leadership in the Church and society.
Superior of the Year
One of the highlights of the AGM was the recognition of Sr. Mary Goretty Ochieng, Superior General of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph, who was named the AOSK Superior of the Year.
The award, announced by AOSK Executive Secretary Sr. Pasilisa Namikoye, LSOSF, recognized Sr. Mary Goretty’s outstanding commitment, dedication and active participation in AOSK activities during the 2025–2026 period.
The Superior of the Year ward acknowledges the important role played by Superiors in strengthening collaboration among congregations and advancing AOSK’s mission.
Elections
The General Assembly concluded with the election of new leaders to steer the Association into its next phase of growth.
Sr. Prof. Jacinta Adhiambo, ESM, was elected as the new Chairperson of AOSK, succeeding Sr. Dr. Josephine Kangogo, DSH, who had led the Association since 2018. Prior to her election, Sr. Prof. Jacinta served as the Vice Chairperson of AOSK.
Also elected to the AOSK Board were Sr. Mary Christine, Provincial of the Sisters of Notre Dame, and Sr. Mary Rubika, Regional Superior of the Apostolic Carmel.
In her acceptance speech, Sr. Prof. Jacinta thanked delegates for the confidence they had placed in her and pledged to work closely with member congregations to strengthen unity, collaboration and the mission of AOSK.
Delivering her farewell address, Sr. Dr. Josephine Kangogo expressed gratitude to member congregations for their support throughout her tenure. She encouraged continued commitment to AOSK’s programmes and assured delegates that she would remain a dedicated ambassador of the Association.
By Arnold Neliba, AOSK Communication and Advocacy Officer
