SVD
Generalate

Reflecting on the global events of 2023 through the lens of our worldwide mission as a missionary congregation is a vast and complex endeavor. Deep introspection and a careful review of the events and circumstances of the past year reveal the true face of 2023.

In gratitude, Father Superior General Paulus Budi Kleden recalls various aspects of 2023 resulting from personal introspection. These aspects, including lessons learned, significant events, the impact on our Society, and global collaboration, appear distinct. However, they form the authentic emblem of 2023 for the Society of the Divine Word when brought together.

Visits and personal encounters

Father Kleden expresses gratitude for the opportunities to visit several provinces and regions of Latin America, including countries like Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, the Amazon Region (Brazil), Paraguay, and the United States. Remarkable were also the visits to Russia, Portugal, Spain, Slovakia and the Cech Republic. These visits exceeded mere inspections; they provided a platform for heart-to-heart conversations, moments of communion, participation, and attentive listening.

The outcome of these visits was an epiphany – a revelation that instilled a sense of pride and admiration. In each visited place, our confreres demonstrated a genuine commitment to mission, faithfulness, and respect for the people they serve. These visits allowed the Superior General to witness both the positive and challenging aspects of the Society’s work and our confreres’ openness to address wounds of injustice, poverty, loneliness, and political instability.

Jubilees and milestone events

In 2023, the Province of Portugal started their jubilee year celebration of 75 years of missionary presence, and Slovakia marked 100 years of existence. These European countries, with distinct historical backgrounds and political challenges, showcased the sterling qualities of missionaries who lived out their mission. In Portugal, an unexpected move from Brazil – once a missioned country – initiated a mission in Portugal, illustrating a story of reciprocation.

In Slovakia, the challenges of a Communist government shaped the minds and hearts of confreres. Despite the ordeal, true, tested, and unwavering missionaries emerged when allowed to serve in other missions. Similar stories unfolded in places like Russia, Nicaragua, and Cuba. Our confreres in these areas remain strong and committed to their mission, always ready to take risks to defend the people they serve.

The 75th-anniversary jubilee in India East, the 100 years of St. Augustine seminary in Bay St. Louis and the 25th-anniversary of Grupo Editorial Verbo Divino transcend mere celebrations. Beyond these milestones lie a message of belief in collaboration, a conviction in the importance of taking risks, and faithfulness to weather all challenges.

Global events shaped our mission

Every day of 2023 was marked by global events that shaped our world, affecting the people we serve and our environment. Father Superior General identified the war in Ukraine and Gaza, the Environmental meeting, COP 28 in Saudi Arabia, and the First Synod on Synodality as events that influenced our mission and provided a roadmap.

The war in Ukraine initially portrayed our Society as collaborative, responsive, and ready to act, echoing the spirit of Mary in haste to help her cousin Elizabeth. The Society, including its institutions and wholehearted confreres, demonstrated swift solidarity for Ukraine. The horrors of the war in Gaza gave our confreres a platform to express solidarity and engage in meaningful conversations and prayers for peace.

The First Synod on Synodality reminded us of the importance of synodality expressed in communion, collaboration, and participation – pillars that reflect the essence of our mission. The participation of our four bishops and one provincial made our Society visible in the synodal process, carrying the charism of our Society.

The COP 28 conference (November 30- December 13) in Saudi Arabia served as a resounding call to action for our Congregation, emphasizing the critical need to proactively engage in significant and incremental measures such as the Laudato Si Action Platform to safeguard our shared environment.

Now, more than ever, we find ourselves compelled to unite with Pope Francis’s advocacy and collaborate with global initiatives to mitigate the ever-evolving threats leading our world toward destruction and extinction. In “Laudate Deum” (October 2023), Pope Francis confronts those who downplay the severity of climate change. Pope Francis expresses a sense of obligation to address dismissive opinions, even within the Catholic Church. In some of our PRMs a collective effort to instigate positive change and foster a sustainable future for future generations is being carried out.

In 2023, elections triggered significant changes and political instability in some countries. In 2024, around 60 nations face elections, signaling potential global political shifts. These changes will impact life in areas like economics, social welfare, and international relations. It is crucial for individuals and communities, including ours, to stay informed and actively participate in the democratic process as we anticipate upcoming political transformations.

Engaging the membership and global collaboration

In every mission and institution worldwide, engagements and commitments occurred in the spirit of synodality. The year 2023, as observed through general visitations, visits from Father General, district, and community meetings, showcased a firm commitment from confreres working to experience the spirit of synodality.

In various Provincial and Regional Meetings (PRMs), we have successfully completed the process of electing our new superiors and local leaders. The commencement of this new triennium represents a summons to assume the responsibilities of leadership within the framework of synodality. Additionally, a noteworthy achievement has been the considerable representation of Brothers elected to crucial positions, including provincial, vice provincial, rector, district, and vice district superiors, among other key roles.

In conclusion, 2023 propelled us toward a Congregation that is always ready to be a guiding light for others. As we continue to be creative and committed disciples in a wounded world, our goals and priorities for 2023 focused on the critical light of service and commitment. Together, we envision our Society responding as a beacon, always ready to illuminate the evolving needs of the people we serve.

Entering the New Year, 2024

As we enter the New Year of 2024, the lessons learned and possibilities opened in 2023 serve as critical instruments to forge ahead. The past year’s experiences have equipped us to face what 2024 brings with resilience and determination. The challenges and triumphs of 2023 have provided valuable insights that will guide our actions and decisions this year.

– Arnoldus Nota
Based on a conversation with Father Paulus Budi Kleden