Society
Of The Divine Word

On Sunday, July 14, the Society of the Divine Word celebrated a significant milestone with the conclusion of the 19th General Chapter, highlighted by the Thanksgiving Liturgy. This joyous occasion featured the installation and commissioning of the new Superior General, Father Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro, and his General Councilors, marking a significant leadership transition.

The event was graced by the Capitulars, Roman SVD communities, SSpS Leadership Team, Sisters from Via Cassia, and the Mayor of Nemi accompanied by his wife and mother. The atmosphere was electric with joy and anticipation, particularly during the solemn procession of outgoing and incoming administrations, sparking a collective excitement and a strong sense of hope for the future.

The nearly two-hour ceremony was rich with symbolic rituals and biblical readings, emphasizing the familial unity within the Society. Father Anselmo and his Councilors formally accepted their roles, supported by heartfelt words from their predecessors.

The outgoing Superior General, Father Paulus Budi Kleden, delivered an inspiring sermon, highlighting the missionary purpose of being prophets, brothers, and collaborators. He stressed the new leadership’s role in guiding the Society towards these ideals, emphasizing the importance of a synodal and collaborative approach that values each member’s contribution. Father Anselmo expressed profound gratitude to the outgoing Council, reflecting on his journey and the importance of this approach.

The liturgy was vibrant with cultural diversity. It featured an African capitulars’ procession of the Word of God, accompanied by drums, and a Filipino offertory procession with the traditional Sinulog dance. Placing the image of the Child Jesus on the shoulders of the outgoing and incoming Superiors General was a symbolic gesture of unburdening the leaders, emphasizing the unity and shared mission that binds us all.

The celebration concluded with an aperitif and lunch. However, the overarching theme was the spirit of family and the enthusiastic anticipation for the positive changes and new directions under the new leadership. This event filled everyone with a profound sense of hope and optimism, inspiring all to let their light shine before others and become faithful and creative disciples.