On 17 July 2026, we, the Sisters of the Holy Union of the Sacred Hearts, received with great joy the news that Sr. Joan Mary kiveyonge was honoured with the traditional title “Ya Wo lav nyuy,” meaning “Queen Mother of the house of God.” The title was conferred on her by the Paramount Fon of Nso during her visit to the Palace on an official mission of the Congregation.
This recognition came as a special Bicentenary gift and was a beautiful expression of appreciation for Sr. Joan Mary’s presence, service and connection with her people. What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is that it took place within her own traditional and cultural setting, affirming the value of her roots and her belonging.
The title “Ya Wo lav nyuy” carries a profound significance. It is not merely a traditional honour or a title of prestige; it is a recognition of service, presence, responsibility and the esteem in which a person is held within the community. In calling her “Mother of the House of God (the Church),” there is an implicit acknowledgement of a person who is seen as one who nurtures, accompanies, serves and contributes to the well-being of others.
For us as Holy Union Sisters, this moment invites a deeper reflection on the importance of being rooted in our cultural and traditional backgrounds. Our religious vocation does not separate us from our origins. Rather, our roots, cultures, traditions and life experiences can become part of the richness we bring to our vocation and mission. We are called to embrace who we are, where we come from and the people to whom we belong, allowing these roots to enrich our service of God and humanity.
Sr. Joan Mary’s recognition reminds us that our presence in the Church and in society can bear fruit when it remains connected to our roots. The honour she received is therefore not only a personal recognition; it is also a recognition of the contribution of consecrated women and, in a particular way, of the presence and mission of the Sisters of the Holy Union.
We rejoice with Sr. Joan Mary and give thanks to God for this beautiful moment of grace. As we continue celebrating our Bicentenary, we recognise in this honour another sign of God’s goodness and blessing upon our Congregation.
May the title “Ya Wo lav nyuy – Mother of the House of God (The Church)” continue to remind Sr. Joan Mary of the call to serve with a maternal heart, while also reminding all of us that our roots are not something from which we need to be separated or excluded. They are part of the story God continues to write through us.