Society
Of The Divine Word

The first national meeting of Misioneros Laicos del Verbo Divino (MLVD) occurred in Medellin on January 5-8, 2024. In attendance were 25 participants from SVD-administered parishes in the Province, emphasizing the strong commitment of the laity to serve Christ within the SVD Congregation. The gathering focused on contemplation as a source of inspiration and perseverance in mission, highlighting the need to cultivate divine love and meditation daily.

Key Points:

Reflection on mission: Participants emphasized the mission as primarily the mission of God, stressing the importance of love and divine contemplation in fulfilling this mission.

Building Lay Foundations: There was a discussion about spreading the idea that members are part of a congregation, not just parish groups. This distinction is crucial for a more expansive mission beyond individual parishes.

Provincial Support: The Provincial Marcelinus Nuham Belawa SVD supported the laity, acknowledging their role and commitment. Efforts were pledged to unify the actions of lay members in Colombia and distinguish them from parish groups.

The meeting included presentations, reflections, and testimonies. Attendees included lay members from various cities and consecrated individuals. Activities ranged from discussions on the role of lay missionaries, forgiveness, and healing of memories to testimonies of mission experiences.

The Provincial and his council are committed to creating guidelines to unify the actions of lay members in Colombia, distinguishing them from parish groups. The meeting concluded with plans for the first General Assembly of Lay SVD members in Medellín in June 2024.

During the event, valuable inputs and reflections were shared by the following SVD participants:

Father Marcelinus Nuham Belawa, SVD; Father Oscar Darío Villa Úsuga, SVD; Father Manuel Antonio Brand Mesa, SVD; Father Michael Obeng, SVD; Brother Ángel Figueroa SVD

Attempts to establish the SVD lay movement in Colombia have faced setbacks, as this clarity was lacking. Consequently, efforts have remained stagnant, with small parish groups focusing on strengthening their respective parishes and tending to the temple walls. However, there is a growing understanding that our mission extends far beyond.

While we are connected to the parishes managed by the SVD and must commit to assisting them, we are not just another parish group. We are SVD laity; therefore, Christ’s call is for us to venture into the world, seeking out the poor, needy, and suffering. Despite the initial challenges, a positive shift towards a more expansive and impactful vision exists.

Iván Darío Cataño Vásquez MLVD-Medellín