Fr. Koutandji, 42, entered the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Togo in 2009 and was ordained a priest in 2015. His missionary assignment brought him to Paris, where the Divine Word Missionaries serve two parishes with several congregations on the outskirts of the city. He previously ministered in the parish of Noisy-le-Grand and was involved in diocesan youth ministry and prison ministry. Through his dedication, he gained the trust of Bishop Étienne Guillet, who has led the diocese since 2025. Last year, the bishop appointed Fr. Koutandji to his close advisory team.

“A Great Recognition for Fr. Janvier and Our Society”

The Provincial of the Central European Province, Fr. Christian Stranz, SVD, gave his consent to the appointment “with mixed feelings.” He remarked: “On the one hand, it is a great honor for Fr. Janvier, whom I warmly congratulate on this responsible mission. On the other hand, his appointment presents a challenge for the staffing of the Paris District, as a capable confrere is now no longer available. Nevertheless, it is a strong sign of appreciation for our religious community.”

In addition, Fr. Marcel Martinko, SVD, was elected by his fellow priests in January of this year as vice-chairman of the Saint-Denis Priests’ Council.

Diocese of Saint-Denis: Challenges and Opportunities

Founded in 1966, the Diocese of Saint-Denis is one of the youngest and, at the same time, one of the poorest dioceses in France. It comprises 85 parishes and serves a population of more than 1.8 million people, including approximately 717,000 Catholics, ministered by a limited number of priests.

The cathedral of the diocese is the renowned Gothic Basilica of Saint-Denis, one of the earliest of its kind and the burial place of many French kings and queens. Located in the suburbs of Paris, Saint-Denis faces significant social and political challenges. The area is marked by a high number of migrants, including many without residence permits. It is also known for issues related to unemployment, crime, and social instability.

The Muslim population in the diocese is estimated at around 70 percent. Despite this, Bishop Guillet highlights the strong spirit of interreligious dialogue. Many Muslim families send their children to Catholic schools, and civil authorities recognize the Church’s role in building bridges among different religious and social groups.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in young people seeking to become Catholics. The Divine Word Missionaries actively accompany many young people and adult catechumens in their parishes as they prepare for Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation.