Society
Of The Divine Word

Pope Francis designated the third Sunday of the Ordinary Time as the Sunday of the Word. On this day, all Christians are encouraged to focus on the Word of God, reflecting on its importance in their lives. In line with this, SVD Indonesia Ruteng Province celebrated the Sunday of the Word at Holy Eucharist Parish in Redong, an SVD parish in Ruteng Diocese. The celebration took place on January 26, 2025, and was presided over by Fr. Yosef Masan Toron, SVD, accompanied by Fr. Christian Sambu, SVD, the parish priest. The event was attended by all parishioners, along with the Holy Spirit Sisters (SSpS), who were responsible for the choir. Beyond commemorating the Sunday of the Word, the celebration also marked the promulgation of the Year of the Transformative Eucharist as a key pastoral program in Ruteng Diocese.

As the main celebrant, Fr. Yosef emphasized the importance of the Bible in Christian life. Citing Dei Verbum from Vatican II, he reminded the congregation that the Word of God must serve as spiritual nourishment. He urged all Christians to read the Bible and live according to its teachings. He also highlighted the urgent need for increased Bible reading, as studies by the Ruteng Diocese Pastoral Center indicate that 60% of local Christians show little interest in Scripture. This is in stark contrast to the Catholic Church’s presence in Ruteng for over a century. Thus, Fr. Yosef encouraged all parishioners to engage with the Bible and apply its teachings in their daily lives.

At the conclusion of the Mass, Fr. Yosef invited everyone to actively participate in the upcoming 150^th anniversary celebration of the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD). As an SVD-run parish, Holy Eucharist Parish in Redong is called to embody the influence of the Word in both life and service. Furthermore, as a part of Ruteng Diocese, all parishioners are encouraged to make the values of the Eucharist more tangible in their daily lives.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Br. Tommy Runesi, secretary of the St. Arnold Janssen Bible Center, in collaboration with the Holy Spirit Sisters (SSpS), promoted a movement to deepen love for the Word of God through Bible-based activities for the youth. This initiative aligns with the theme of the SVD General Chapter 2024: “Your Light Must Shine Among Others: Faithful and Creative Disciples in a Wounded World.” Despite challenges, it is hoped that increased familiarity with the Bible will strengthen young people in their faith and equip them to build a better future.

Yosef Masan Toron, SVD
Bible Coordinator IDR