Society
Of The Divine Word

The SVDs came from India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Ghana, Papua New Guinea, Poland, and Congo, and are currently serving in 14 different Provinces, Regions, and Missions (PRMs). The two diocesan participants hailed from Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

The renewal journey began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist on March 3 in Steyl, the birthplace of the Society of the Divine Word. From the outset, the program created space for deep reflection, spiritual growth, and personal renewal. 

Participants received rich inputs on the Founding Generation, and the living witness of the Steyl community—many of whom are senior confreres with decades of missionary service—served as an additional source of inspiration and motivation.

Visits to significant sites such as Brixen and Oies further deepened participants’ connection with the roots of the Society. On March 24, the group arrived in Nemi, where they continued the renewal process with an intensive schedule of inputs covering Scripture, spirituality, mission, personal well-being, and the SVD’s four Characteristic Dimensions. The community of Nemi provided an atmosphere of silence, reflection, and intercultural fraternity, fostering a spirit of openness and transformation.

Throughout the course, the participants remained receptive and engaged, embracing the program’s invitation to renewal and conversion.

For Michael Pragasam (INC-India), these past months have been truly transformative. “This was time spent for myself and my growth,” he reflected. “Walking in Steyl, where our founding generation once walked, was unforgettable and deeply inspiring. The sessions in both Steyl and Nemi challenged me to reflect on who I am and who I am called to become. I return with a renewed body, mind, and spirit.”

Mathew Chennakudy (INM-India) described the Tertiate as “a reflective and restful time of prayer and renewed commitment to our missionary vocation. The classes on theology and mission, the visits to significant religious sites, and the intercultural community life with confreres from around the world offered both insight and spiritual nourishment.”

For Gregory Minz (Timor Leste Region-India), the renewal program was an invitation to embrace God’s grace anew. “It was a time to breathe in the Holy Spirit afresh and renew my missionary commitment. The combination of theological input and psycho-spiritual exercises helped me journey deeper within myself and toward God.”

Felix Noel Dacquel (PHC-Philippines), who celebrated his Silver Jubilee of Religious Vows during the program, described the experience as a triple blessing. “First, just being part of this renewal program. Second, fulfilling a dream by visiting Steyl. And third, having the time, space, and people who helped me reflect on my journey of 25 years living the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. My heart is full of joy and gratitude.”

For Conrad Haribaik (PHN-Indonesia), silence played a key role. “The calmness of Nemi helped me reflect deeply on my priesthood and mission. In silence, I learned to listen more—to God, to others, and to myself. Meeting confreres from different nations broadened my horizons and reminded me that we are one SVD family with a shared mission.”

Ryszard Wajda (PNG-Poland), after nearly four decades of missionary service in Papua New Guinea, found the Tertiate to be a moment of personal and missionary affirmation. “Coming from an earlier generation of missionaries, this time renewed my spirit and strengthened my commitment. The topics addressed were timely and relevant, helping me better understand the challenges the Church and our SVD mission face today.”

For Soby Pulickeel (ING-India), the experience was both healing and eye-opening. “I came to the course with an open heart, not knowing exactly what to expect. This journey helped me face personal struggles with honesty and renew my sense of peace, purpose, and direction. I return to mission life more grounded in faith, more connected to myself, and more available to others.”

As the 91st SVD Tertiate Renewal Program concludes, the participants return to their respective missions with renewed zeal, compassion, and faith—ready to continue the Divine Word Mission with greater clarity and deeper conviction.