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SVD Marks 150th Jubilee with Global Premiere of Documentary “Witnessing to the Light”

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The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) marked a historic moment on August 15, 2025, with the global premiere of its official documentary, “Witnessing to the Light: From Everywhere, For Everyone.” The launching was centered at the Collegio Verbo Divino community in Rome, while simultaneously streamed via Zoom. The event gathered more than 100 confreres, sisters, lay partners, and friends of the SVD family from around the world.

Participants joined from all four SVD Zones—Europe, PANAM, AFRAM, and ASPAC—underscoring the congregation’s universality and missionary presence in more than 80 countries.

The program organized by the SVD Generalate Media Department, was guided by Fr. Marlon Bobier Vargas, SVD, with opening remarks from Fr. Kasmir Nema, SVD, General Communication Coordinator, who emphasized that the documentary is both a remembrance of the past and a testimony of God’s fidelity inspiring future mission.

The documentary traced the SVD journey from its beginnings in Steyl, Netherlands, to its global expansion, blending historical milestones, cultural encounters, and personal testimonies. It captured the spirit of the Jubilee theme: “Witnessing to the Light: From Everywhere, For Everyone.”

Viewers responded with gratitude and joy, noting how the premiere reinforced their sense of belonging to the worldwide SVD family. The simultaneous release on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram expanded participation beyond Zoom, allowing collaborators and friends to join the celebration.

The session closed with thanks and prayers, affirming the SVD’s commitment to continue spreading the Word with faith, courage, and love. The global participation in the premiere stood as a living witness to the light carried by the congregation for 150 years—and its mission to bring that light into the future.

Watch the full documentary here:

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