Society
Of The Divine Word

The meeting aimed to evaluate formation programs, discuss challenges, and strengthen collaboration among formators in Europe. The gathering included formators from various SVD provinces in Europe, including Germany (GER), Poland (POL), Hungary (HUN) Slovakia (SLK), Portugal (POR), Spain (ESP), and Austria-Switzerland-Croatia-France (ECP).

Fr. Anbu Pushpa, the Generalate Secretary for Formation and Education, led a session on the implementation of the Ratio Formationis Generalis (RFG). Formators discussed how the RFG serves as a guide for formation, ensuring alignment with the SVD missionary identity. There was a focus on adapting the RFG to the European context, with some formators emphasizing the need to consider the lived experiences of formandi in the formation process. Others noted the importance of studying the document further before applying it in their respective formation programs.

Sr. Svitlana Matsiuk, novice directress of SSpS in Ireland, emphasized the importance of collaboration within the Arnoldus family in both formation and vocation promotion initiatives. She highlighted that the SVD, SSpS, and SSpSAP congregations share a common missionary vision, making joint efforts in formation more effective. She also spoke about deepening the understanding of trust, security, and relationships in formation. A strong formation process should help brothers and sisters develop inner security and confidence in their vocation. Trust between formators and formandi fosters a supportive environment where they feel encouraged to grow spiritually and emotionally. Another key point she raised was learning a sense of responsibility and accountability in community life. She stressed that formandi must develop a strong awareness of their commitments and understand that missionary life requires a balance of personal initiative and communal responsibility. By instilling these values early, future missionaries will be better prepared to serve in diverse mission contexts.

Bro. Raul Acosta, the Generalate Assistant Secretary for Brothers Formation, discussed the formation of SVD brothers in other zones and the challenges and opportunities associated with their vocation. He emphasized the need for better integration of brother formation into the wider SVD formation framework. Formators reflected on how to strengthen the presence and identity of brothers in the Europe Zone.

Fr. Adam MacDonald, rector of the Divine Word Theologate and Vocation Director in the Chicago Province, shared his experiences in formation and vocation promotion from his work in the PANAM Zone. He highlighted that strong and healthy vocations flourish when formation programs provide structured pastoral guidance, a clear missionary identity, and a supportive community environment. He emphasized that effective formation requires open and consistent communication between formators and formandi. When candidates feel heard and engaged, they develop a deeper sense of trust, responsibility, and belonging within the community.

Fr. MacDonald encouraged formators to embrace change, recognizing that formation must adapt to the evolving realities of young people entering religious life today. He also stressed the need to empower formandi with leadership skills by involving them in decision-making processes that affect community life. Providing them with opportunities to lead and take responsibility and lead fosters accountability, initiative, and collaboration, ultimately preparing them for future missionary roles.

Additionally, he reminded formators that formation is not only for seminarians but also for those guiding them. He called for ongoing formation and renewal for formators to ensure they remain spiritually and pastorally equipped to accompany young missionaries effectively. Lastly, he emphasized that leading by example is the most powerful lesson in formation. By living out the values of prayer, mission, and community life, formators inspire those in formation in the most authentic and impactful way.

The presence of Fr. Marek Vanus, the president of the Europa Zonal Executive Committee, and Fr. Franz Helm, Europe Zonal Coordinator, enriched the discussions by providing broader perspectives on formation within the European context. Their insights helped bridge the vision of formation with the priorities of the SVD leadership in Europe, emphasizing the need for collaboration and adaptation to contemporary missionary challenges.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the formulation of the Europe Formation Action Plan for 2025-2028. This plan outlines concrete steps to enhance formation programs, improve collaboration among formation houses, and promote vocation awareness across the Europe Zone. The plan reflects the discussions and insights shared during the meeting, aiming to provide a structured and mission-focused approach to formation in the coming years.

The participants expressed their deep gratitude to the Spain Province (ESP) for its hospitality and generosity in hosting the meeting. The warm welcome, well-organized logistics, and supportive environment contributed to a fruitful and engaging gathering, allowing the formators to focus on their discussions and reflections effectively.

GMD