Society
Of The Divine Word

July 5, 2024 – The Society of the Divine Word communities worldwide, including the Arnoldus Family, lay partners, and friends, united in joy to welcome Ricardo Anselmo Ribeiro’s election as the 14th SVD Superior General. This significant milestone has fostered a sense of global unity and has been widely celebrated across various social media platforms.

Amid this excitement, the Centro Ad Gentes Nemi Capitulars diligently continued their vital task of forming the new General Council team. On the morning of July 5, following the Superior General election, the Capitulars gathered in small groups to deliberate on the qualities needed for a Councilor. They discussed potential candidates, shared information, and reached a consensus on their ideal team, which they then posted in the Chapter hall, keeping everyone involved and informed.

After a period of silent reflection and prayer in the afternoon, the Capitulars began voting for the General Councilors. Father Paulus Budi Kleden reminded everyone of the election procedures, and the voting commenced.

The first elected was Xavier Thirukudumbam as the Vice Superior General. Next, the Capitulars elected Brother Michael Ertl, a German working at the Freinademetz Spiritual Center in Oies, as the Brother General Councilor. Though not a Capitular, Bro. Michael graciously accepted the election results via phone, embodying the spirit of cooperation and acceptance. Finally, the Capitulars re-elected Eryk Jan Koppa to another term on the General Council.

The day was filled with positive energy and joy. As each Councilor was elected, they were met with thunderous applause and warm, personal congratulations. This moment marked a new direction for the Society of the Divine Word’s mission and life.

The day concluded with a Holy Eucharist celebration, presided over by Bawerima Bruno Wensan’na, the youngest Capitular, in honor of Mary, the Mother of God.

July 6, 2024

The Capitulars gathered earlier than usual to continue the election of three more Councilors and to determine who will be the General Admonitor. Following the same procedural rules of election the voting began preceded by a moment of prayer.

The Capitulars kicked off their day earlier than usual to proceed with the election of the remaining members of the General Council. The assembly began this crucial day with a prayer, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings.

The voting process unfolded smoothly, adhering to the established procedures. The first to be elected to the General Council was Yulius Yasinto from Indonesia. He accepted the decision of the Capitulars with gratitude, followed by a round of applause. Next, Fabian Mate Kalaluka from Zambia, the current Regional of MOZ, was elected. He graciously accepted the role, expressing his commitment to serve the Society.

After a brief break, the voting resumed, culminating in the election of Jerome Marquez from the Philippines. He openly expressed his fears for this office but he respects the will of the Capitulars. With his election, the General Council for the term 2024-2030 was completed. The election for the General Admonitor is scheduled for Monday, July 8.

Here is the newly formed General Council:

• Superior General:                   Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro
• Vice Superior General:          Xavier Thirukudumbam
• General Councilor:                 Bro. Michael Ertl
• General Councilor                  Yulius Yasinto
• General Councilor:                 Eryk Koppa
• General Councilor:                 Fabian Mate Kalaluka
• General Councilor:                 Jerome Marquez