Society
Of The Divine Word

Mission Beyond Borders from Mozambique and Ghana
As we mark the 150th Jubilee of the Society of the Divine Word, my visit with my husband to Mozambique and Ghana became a lived experience of our Arnoldus family spirit. The warm welcome of confreres and the vibrant witness of lay partners revealed to me that the Jubilee is not only a celebration of history, but of a living mission — one faith, one family, and one Word shared across cultures.

In Mozambique, we were welcomed by Ir. Moacir Rudnik, SVD, Regional Superior, Fr. Joseph Sahayaraj, SVD, and the community, whose hospitality immediately made us feel at home. A highlight was meeting the lay partners of LACVERDI (Leigos Associados à Congregação do Verbo Divino), led by Paula Novela. We celebrated the Eucharist together, shared breakfast, and then gathered for a heartfelt meeting.

Despite challenges, the LACVERDI members’ joy, resilience, and faith-filled simplicity inspired me, reminding me that mission is measured by love shared and their spirit still encourages me.

Our time in Ghana was equally enriching. At the Arnold Janssen Spirituality Centre in Bortianor Hills, Accra, we were warmly hosted by Fr. George Clement Angmor, SVD, in a serene setting that radiates peace and prayer amidst the beauty of nature. We were also received with fraternal openness by Fr. Cyprian Kuupol, SVD, Provincial, and his team, whose leadership reflected genuine service and collaboration.

We also experienced the generous hospitality of our friend, Fr. Peter Claver Narh, SVD, who welcomed us into his home with warmth and kindness. Staying with him allowed us to encounter Ghanaian life not as visitors, but as family, sharing meals, conversations, and daily experiences.

A special highlight was meeting the SVD Lay Partners at the Tesano Community, especially Agnes Cobbinah and other members. Having interacted with them previously from afar, meeting them in person was a joy. Their dedication, honesty, and deep faith revealed their true identity as co-missionaries. Celebrating the Eucharist and sharing fellowship together affirmed to me that their role is central to the mission.

A Living Jubilee
Looking back, my time in Mozambique and Ghana was more than hospitality; it was mission in action. The warmth of confreres, friends, and lay partners reflected the living spirit of St. Arnold. In this Jubilee year, I return home grateful, convinced that across borders and cultures we share one faith, one family, and one mission.