Society
Of The Divine Word

On September 8, the vibrant community of Steyl in the Netherlands commemorated with great joy the 149th anniversary of the founding of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD). This significant celebration marks the beginning of the SVD jubilee year in preparation for the 150th anniversary in 2025, a milestone that highlights the emergence of one of the most influential missionary societies in modern history. The event was attended by numerous confreres from Germany, the Netherlands, Rome, Spain and the China-Taiwan Province, as well as the religious sisters founded by St. Arnold Janssen.

The day began with a solemn Eucharistic liturgy, presided over by the Superior General, Anselmo Ribeiro. This deeply symbolic moment highlighted the spiritual legacy of the Congregation, honoring the divine inspiration that prompted St. Arnold to establish the SVD in 1875. In his homily, the Superior General highlighted the continuity of that missionary spirit, an impulse that has grown over the decades, inspiring men and women around the world to carry the Word of God and serve the most vulnerable communities.

After mass, the community gathered to enjoy a lively and succulent lunch, which reflected the spirit of fraternity and warmth that characterizes the SVD family. The event was also enlivened by songs in different languages, interpreted by the SVD students of St. Augustine. This moment of conviviality, in which members of the congregation, religious sisters and lay associates participated, fostered an atmosphere of unity and common purpose, uniting generations of people who have given their lives to missionary service.

One of the most emblematic moments of the day was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in anticipation of the 150th anniversary. This plaque, intended to be a lasting symbol of the congregation’s unwavering commitment to its mission, was presented to an expectant congregation. The significance of this gesture did not go unnoticed, as it symbolized not only the historical relevance of the SVD, but also its essential role in a world in constant transformation.

The celebrations continued in the evening with a more intimate, but equally meaningful event: a small group of Steyl laity organized a moving lighting ceremony, where the lighted lights symbolized a torch of faith. This gesture, profound in its symbolism, represented the light that the SVD has carried into the world for almost a century and a half. It was a clear reflection of the congregation’s mission to bring hope and light to the farthest and neediest corners of the globe. The glowing lights in the darkness offered a powerful metaphor for the constant presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Divine Word community.

This event not only celebrated the glorious past of the SVD, but also served as a prelude to the great festivities that will culminate in 2025. As the congregation approaches its 150th anniversary, there is a renewed call to continue to inspire and serve, ever faithful to the original mission of St. Arnold Janssen, with the certainty that, guided by the Spirit, they will continue to bring the light of faith and love to the ends of the earth.

For those of us who were fortunate enough to visit Steyl during those days, we can only express our deepest gratitude to the SVD community for their warm welcome. Each member of this missionary family holds in their hearts stories full of dedication and faith, as if they were living libraries that inspire us to continue on the path of service with the same fervor with which they have lived their mission. Each encounter, each conversation, was a reminder of the transforming power of the Gospel and the legacy that continues to flourish in generous hands and hearts.