Society
Of The Divine Word

An Encounter that Touches Hearts
From the moment of arrival, the atmosphere was special. It was not just another congress, but a space of transformation and community. The warm welcome, hugs, and smiles eased the initial nerves and gave way to a climate of fraternity. Walks, sunset songs, and moments of prayer turned the ordinary into something sacred, strengthening the sense of belonging and shared mission.

Voices that Inspire
Brother Thomas Paul Hasler recalled the lives of the SVD martyrs, who gave their lives without renouncing their faith. Valentín Benítez explained his insights on how the Bible continues to be a living Word, illuminating the doubts and dreams of young people. Alberto and Mónica shared their testimony of marriage as a vocation to love and service, alongside missionary life. Seminarians also narrated their struggles and joys in discernment, reaffirming that mission is always a response of love.

SVD Charism in Action
The youth of San Miguel presented the four dimensions that characterize SVD spirituality: mission animation, biblical apostolate, justice, peace and integrity of creation (JPIC), and communication. Each dimension is embraced as a lifestyle and commitment to transform the world through faith. Sr. María Bernal invited the participants to live discernment as a path of prayer, trust, and surrender to God’s will.

Celebration of 150 Years of Mission
The closing Mass, presided over by Fr. Kornelius D. Boli Udjan, SVD, was a moment of deep gratitude for the 150 years of the Congregation’s history and the 115 years of its presence in Paraguay. Their work in schools, parishes, and rural communities was remembered, emphasizing that celebrating is not nostalgia but an impulse to keep the mission alive with courage and creativity.

Organization with a Human Face
The event was organized by the Mission Animation Team, coordinated by Fr. Antony Musonda, SVD. With the support of volunteers, families, and communities, every detail was cared for to create an atmosphere of fraternity and welcome, where each space allowed for sharing, reflection, laughter, and prayer together.

Final Message: To Be Light and Hope
The Congress concluded with a strong commitment: to return to the communities as light in the midst of darkness, announcing hope with concrete gestures of service, closeness, and prayer. “The world needs you” was the phrase that resonated as an urgent and true call.

Conclusion
The 10th SVD Youth Congress was more than an event: it was a profound heartbeat of faith, community, and mission. Young people left convinced that the story continues, walking as pilgrims of hope and witnesses to the Light wherever God sends them.