- svd-prms
- / IDT /
- February 1, 2025
Kupang’s BBG Community hosts Lectio Divina socialization in preparation for SVD’s 150th anniversary
As part of the spiritual preparation for the 150th anniversary of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), the Brotherhood of Blessed Gregory (BBG) Monastery Community in Kupang hosted a Lectio Divina socialization event.
This initiative aimed to enhance Scripture study and encourage a more profound connection with God’s Word, fostering renewal among religious and lay participants alike.
Held at the BBG Monastery Hall, the event was led by Father Salvator Towari, SVD, the Admonitor of the SVD Timor Province, and was attended by priests and brothers from the BBG community.
Also present were two sisters from the Putri Maranatha congregation, a religious order founded by the late Bishop Antonius Pain Ratu, SVD, along with 52 young girls from the BBG Monastery Girls’ Dormitory in Kupang, who are students at St. Arnold Janssen High School, an educational institution owned by the SVD.
Strengthening Spirituality Through Scripture
Father Salvator emphasized that the 150th anniversary of SVD is a time for renewal, encouraging confreres to deepen their understanding of Scripture and mission work through initiatives such as mission animation, JPIC (Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation), and communication efforts. The socialization of Lectio Divina in the BBG Community serves as an important step toward achieving this goal.
“Lectio Divina is a spiritual method that allows us to grow closer to the Word of God,” said Father Salvator. He outlined the five key steps of this practice:
1 Lectio – Reading the Holy Scripture attentively.
2 Meditatio – Reflecting on the meaning of God’s Word.
3 Contemplatio – Contemplating His Word in silence.
4 Oratio – Praying as a response to God’s message.
5 Missio – Applying the Word in daily life through concrete actions.
A Path to Spiritual Renewal
The event underscored the importance of deepening one’s love for Scripture and encouraged participants to integrate Lectio Divina into their daily spiritual practices.
Father Salvator expressed his hope that through this method, SVD members and the wider Catholic community would strengthen their faith and commitment to missionary work.
As SVD prepares to mark 150 years of missionary service, events like this are expected to enhance spiritual engagement and reinforce the society’s dedication to spreading the Gospel.
Dismas Mauk, SVD
