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Celebration, Culture, and Commitment – Echoes of the SVD Mission in Bolivia
Trieu Thien Cao, SVD
The Mother of the Divine Word Parish in Cochabamba celebrated its patronal feast on September 8, a date that also marked the beginning of the Congregation’s Jubilee Year. The Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Venancio Mulyadi, SVD, Regional Superior of Bolivia, in an atmosphere of profound gratitude for the fruits of the mission and renewed enthusiasm to continue sowing the Word in Bolivian soil.
From the eastern part of the country, the Santa Rosa de Lima Parish in Chiquitania made its presence felt through its orchestra and choir, composed of children and youth who learn and preserve the traditional music of the Chiquitano people. This group not only enriches parish celebrations but also actively participates in the local festivities of Santa Rosa de Roca, uniting art and faith in a shared expression of praise.
In the highlands of El Alto, the Santa María de los Ángeles Parish celebrated its patronal feast on July 16 in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The celebration featured a massive folkloric procession, where thousands of dancers paid tribute to the patroness. Among them stood out performers of the Morenada, a traditional Bolivian dance that expresses the blending of cultures, historical memory, and the identity of the people. This popular display is also a profound act of faith, transforming the streets into a true temple of celebration.
Even higher, at over 4,000 meters above sea level, the San Antonio de Padua Parish in Arque carried out a solidarity visit to schools in the Tanga Tanga area. Thanks to the support of the JUPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation) commission in Bolivia and California, school supplies and warm clothing were distributed to children, providing relief during the harsh Andean winter. This concrete action reflects the Verbite commitment to social justice and to supporting the families most in need.
Finally, the youth of San Juan Diego Parish in Santa Cruz are preparing a folkloric dance to celebrate their patronal feast. Their participation is a sign of a committed, creative, and joyful youth who take an active role in parish life and the evangelizing mission. Through their enthusiasm, they transmit hope and help renew the face of a Church that goes forth.
These experiences show that the mission of the Divine Word in Bolivia is alive—rooted in culture, attentive to the needs of the people, and inspired by the Spirit. In every celebration, dance, act of solidarity, and moment of youth participation, the missionary charism shines brightly, uniting all these communities in a shared dream: to joyfully proclaim God’s love to all the peripheries of life.
This article was originally published in Spanish on the PANAM Zone website
