Society
Of The Divine Word

The celebrants were the Archbishop of Harare, His Grace Robert Ndlovu; the Papal Nuncio to Zimbabwe, His Grace Janusz Urbanczyk; Fr. Vincent, SVD Regional Superior; and the SVD confreres and SVD Lay Partners in the Harare District.

Harare Zimbabwe Celebrates 150 Years of SVD Missionary Spirit

Kerketta Sunil, SVD & Fr. Dennis Ryan Varquez, SVD

On July 22, 2025, the Harare district of the SVD Zimbabwe Region gathered at Holy Cross Parish in Budiriro to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD). Holy Cross Parish is one of three SVD-run parishes in the Harare district that joined forces for the celebration, along with St. Dominic’s Parish in Mubayira and St. Monica Parish in Beatrice.

The celebration was graced by esteemed guests, including His Excellency Janusz Stanislaw Urbanczyk, Apostolic Nuncio to Zimbabwe, and His Grace Robert Christopher Ndlovu, Archbishop of Harare Archdiocese. Also present were Rev. Fr. Vincent Mwiya, SVD Regional Superior of SVD Zimbabwe Region, Fr. Sony Xavier, SVD Admonitor of SVD Zimbabwe Region, SVD confreres from Harare district and guest priests from the Archdiocese of Harare. 

The Holy Mass, presided over by Archbishop Ndlovu, began with a traditional morning prayer led by Fr. Edward SVD and SVD lay partners. The Homily was given by Fr. Joe Ncube, SVD our Biblical Scholar and Zimbabwean SVD Confrere.

In their remarks, both the Nuncio and the Archbishop lauded the SVDs for their tireless efforts in Zimbabwe since 1987. Archbishop Ndlovu specifically commended the SVDs for their remarkable contributions to the biblical apostolate, highlighting their dedication to spreading the Word of God.

The faithful from the three parishes in the Harare District of the Holy Cross Parish in Budiriro. St. Dominic's Parish in Mubayira, and St. Monica's Parish in Beatrice.

The Nuncio praised the SVDs for their commitment to inculturation, their international character, and their exemplary community life. The celebration was filled with joy and entertainment, featuring performances by parish choirs and a delicious lunch that brought everyone together. This milestone celebration is a testament to the SVDs’ enduring legacy and their unwavering commitment to serving God’s people in Zimbabwe. As they mark 150 years of foundation, the SVDs continue to inspire and serve with humility, compassion, respect and love. The parishioners and guests present on the occasion expressed that the 150th anniversary celebration of the SVD foundation is a significant occasion that highlights the congregation’s rich history, its commitment to serving God’s people, and its enduring legacy.

The event was a beautiful testament to the power of faith, community, and service. SVD Lay Partners were also empowered to do and participate more for the mission of the Society.

Other News and Stories from Provinces, Regions and Missions

SVDlogo_black