SVD
Generalate

As with every living vine, your path has passed through seasons of both light and shadow. The light shines brightly in your generous service, courageous witness, and deep compassion offered to all. It is reflected in our relationships nurtured as brothers and sisters of one family, and in our shared mission to proclaim the Good News and serve the Word in the world with love.

Yet, as we honour the journey, we also acknowledge the shadows, the moments of limitation, lack of witness, misunderstanding, divisions, and the departure of your own brothers. These are part of every human and missionary story. 

These, too, have been part of the pruning (John 15:2), through which the vine is called to bear even more lasting fruit.

In Jesus’ words, “Remain in me, as I remain in you” (John 15:4), we hear the enduring invitation and promise that continues to sustain your mission. May you remain rooted in this love, open to renewal, and courageous in your prophetic witness for the times to come.

Congratulations on your missionary presence across the world! We rejoice with you in the rich legacy of faith, service, and global witness.

May the next chapter of your journey be filled with new life, deeper communion, and abundant fruit. May it continue to bring alive the dream of our Founder, Saint Arnold Jonssen: “May the Holy Triune God live in our hearts and in the hearts of all people.”

With gratitude, joy, and prayer,

Your sisters,
Sr. Miriam Altenhofen, SSPS
Congregational Leader
And all the Missionary Servants of the Holy Spirit.