Society
Of The Divine Word

Brother Michael Ertl, a member of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), was recently elected to the General Council. After his election, he shared the following reflections:

“The election as General Counselor for the upcoming six-year term was a surprise to me, especially since I was not present at the General Chapter. During the election process, the Superior General called to inform me that I was on the list of candidates and that I needed to discern this matter. Reflecting on it, I recalled what St. Joseph Freinademetz said to his companions as his death approached: ‘We came to serve.’ Faithful to my commitment to our Congregation, I accepted the election result and am ready to serve our Society.

At some point in our lives, each of us decided to follow Jesus because we heard His call. I chose to respond to this call as a Brother, a decision that has always been, and continues to be, very dear to me. The Congregation has provided me with various opportunities in different places to fulfill this vocation as a religious missionary. I am deeply committed to fostering this common vocation among us, both priests and brothers. I hope we can heal any wounds and overcome existing gaps. This unity will allow us to ‘carry out our missionary service with one mind and heart with the Divine Word’ (Const. Prologue).”

Arnoldus Nota