- svd-generalate
- / CUR
- / General Visitation
GER Province Shows the Way: Sharing Responsibilities and Resources in the Spirit of Synodality and Solidarity
Xavier Thirukudumbam, SVD
At a time when many provinces are experiencing a decline in personnel and financial resources, and when traditional structures are gradually changing, the GER Province has embraced new and creative ways of carrying out the mission. One of its most significant steps has been the active involvement of lay collaborators in various ministries and the sharing of responsibilities and resources with them. In areas such as communication media, financial management, healthcare, mission animation, fundraising, formation, planning, and the preservation of SVD heritage, lay mission partners play a substantial and valuable role.
This courageous and forward-looking collaboration with the laity in managing institutions, supporting media apostolates, providing pastoral and healthcare services, and participating in other ministries naturally comes with challenges and risks. However, when rooted in trust, synodality, and solidarity, such collaboration greatly enriches the mission. The dedication shown by many collaborators is truly remarkable. While some serve in professional and remunerated roles, others generously offer their services voluntarily.
Volunteerism is deeply rooted in German society and is widely practiced throughout the province. Many volunteers assist the SVD missionaries in various ministries and pastoral settings. One group, for example, dedicates its time to promoting mission magazines and personally distributing mission-related materials to the public. What is particularly inspiring is that many of these volunteers are retired individuals who remain active in their own personal commitments, yet still devote their time and energy to supporting the mission. Their missionary spirit and generosity are deeply edifying. At the same time, however, the number of volunteers is gradually decreasing due to aging.
Despite being 113 years old, the GER Province continues to show vitality and openness to renewal. It has taken courageous steps in entrusting major responsibilities to younger overseas missionaries serving in the province. The intercultural and international character of the Society is clearly visible not only in the composition of its communities, but also in the sharing of leadership and responsibilities in areas such as finance, formation, and mission animation.
Even amid diminishing resources, the province continues to demonstrate generosity and solidarity toward needy PRMs. This is made possible through the commitment and collaborative efforts of confreres, coworkers, and lay partners who remain dedicated to the common mission.
