SVD
Generalate

Drawing insights from scriptural meditations, testimonies of young missionaries, and the emphasis on synodality, Fr. General highlights the urgency of listening, collaborative discernment, and intercultural dialogue as essential tools for navigating today’s global challenges. Above all, he reminds the SVD family worldwide that true hope is not rooted in human effort but in deep trust in the Divine Word, whose light continues to guide the Church’s missionary path.

1. Fr. General, the theme of the 103rd USG Assembly was “Witnesses of Hope.” How did this resonate with you personally, especially in light of your global mission as Superior General of the SVD?

The theme of the assembly refers to the Church’s Jubilee, called by Pope Francis. The assembly began exactly one month after his death, and it was possible to hear the echo of Francis’ teaching in each conference or sharing on the subject. For me, it was very significant to realize how much Consecrated Life accepted the call to not only be pilgrims of hope but also witnesses. It is about bearing witness that hope does not disappoint. Another important aspect is the beginning of the new pontificate, which is also a reason for hope for the Church, the world and for us, consecrated people.

2. During the Assembly, there were rich scriptural meditations led by Professors Massimo Grilli and Rosanna Virgili. Were there any particular biblical insights on hope that struck you deeply or offered new perspectives for missionary life?

The first day was dedicated to biblical reflection, through two conferences. We had time for individual meditation and to share in smaller groups. We followed the Conversation in the Spirit methodology. What caught my attention the most was realizing that, just like us, other congregations or religious orders are seeking to situate themselves in the reality marked by wars, post-pandemic, intolerances and nationalisms. In other words, we are all looking for a path that will take us forward and wanting to detach ourselves from what is unnecessary in our religious culture. The insights received placed us all before human vulnerability, which presents itself as the basis for hope. Hope is generated where there is scarcity and fragility, or when we feel powerless and alone.

3. One session featured young people sharing their experiences as witnesses of hope. What stood out to you in their testimonies, and how can the SVD family globally learn from their courage and faith?

Perhaps the highlight of the assembly was the testimony of these four young people, from four continents and with different ministries. During their presentation, the importance of the place of mission became evident. The identification of each one with people in vulnerable situations became the fuel of their vocation. It is possible to believe in the dedication and commitment of those who hope. These young people are full of hope, despite the difficulties inherent in the mission.

4. Cardinal Mario Grech spoke about consecrated life as a “sign of hope in a synodal Church.” In what ways do you see the SVD’s charism contributing to this synodal journey of hope?

The Cardinal explicitly stated that Religious Life is an icon of synodality, a laboratory of synodality. This is because our structures of government and leadership, at all levels, are based on the experience of councils, assemblies and chapters. For him, religious life is an engine of hope. He also said that we are like yeast, which in a few doses can change an entire reality. Let us begin with this metaphor. Our life and mission as SVDs take us to places and allows us to encounter people and realities that are so different and, often, distant from our personal reality. Here, our ability to transform lives and reality is at stake. To do this, we also need to be filled with hope. We need to believe that, despite what we have done, there is still much more to be done. This is how it is in the dynamics of the Kingdom of God. Our intercultural life and mission are, in fact, a laboratory of dialogue, tolerance and sharing. As for being an icon of synodality, we must ask God for this grace.

5. The Assembly emphasized not just theological reflection but also group sharing and intercultural dialogue. How important is this kind of collaborative discernment for the future of religious life, especially in our diverse SVD communities?

The methodology used throughout the assembly was small groups around a table, and in all sharing we had to practice active listening. This is very important and makes a difference in understanding others. For example, in my group there were six participants. Each person had three minutes to speak, which meant that after speaking, they had to listen for fifteen minutes. Listening is the basis of discernment, not speech. Listening allows us to know much more than analysis.

6. Finally, how do you envision the SVD being “witnesses of hope” today, especially amid global challenges such as conflict, climate change, and secularism? What message would you like to share with all SVD confreres and lay partners around the world?

Hope moves us forward. It is different from optimism. While optimism is centered on human possibilities and capabilities, hope is the virtue of those who place everything in the hands of God. We recognize that the light we want to shine in the darkness is not ours, but Jesus himself, the Divine Word. We recognize that without Him we would not be capable and that the mission we have taken on is His mission. Thus, recognizing that we are poor and in need of the strength that comes from the Divine Word, we must testify with hope that it is He Himself who will continue to guide us in our missionary task.

GMD