Society
Of The Divine Word

The St. Arnold Janssen Bible Center, a collaborative effort between the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) and the Holy Spirit Sisters (SSpS) in Ruteng Flores West, was established in 2020 in response to a challenge from Ruteng Bishop, Mgr. Siprianus Hormat. With more than a century of service in Flores, both religious congregations sought to address the apparent disinterest in the Bible among the Catholics in Ruteng Diocese.

Considering this pastoral reality, the SVD and SSpS Provincials agreed to create the St. Arnold Janssen Bible Center to promote the Bible among the people in Manggarai. With a predominantly Christian population of about 800,000, the area hosts the most significant number of Catholics in Indonesia.

The strategic presence of the St. Arnold Centre facilitates Bible apostolate, building on initiatives started by SVD missionaries in the past. The center endeavors to continue this spirit, making the Bible more known and loved by the Catholics in the region.

Strategic Presence in Labuan Bajo

The St. Arnold Janssen Bible Centre is pivotal in Bible apostolate in the Labuan Bajo region. Building on initiatives by SVD missionaries, the center actively introduces the Bible through various means, not just in discussions but also by embodying its values in diverse services.

Focused Approach at Tiara Nusa High School in Borong

With a specific focus on children and schoolboys, the St. Arnold Janssen Centre emphasizes Bible animation for students. During significant periods like September, the month dedicated to the Bible, and Advent, the center organizes numerous activities for parishioners, children, and students. Invited by private and public schools, the center conducts recollections, Bible courses, animations, and catechesis, receiving appreciation and invitations.

Fr. Yosef Masan Toron, SVD