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PANAM Zone Meeting 2026: Four Dimensions, One Mission
Leo Jesús Leto, SVD
CHI Communication Coordinator
The opening session began with a moment of prayer and the presentation of four symbolic signs: the Bible, representing the Biblical Dimension; the cross, symbolizing Mission Animation; a computer, representing Communication; and a flower, signifying commitment to Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation (JPIC).
Following the presentation of each symbol, verses from the Prologue of the Gospel according to Saint John were proclaimed. This gesture reminded participants that the characteristic dimensions of the SVD mission find their foundation and direction in the light of the Word made flesh: Jesus Christ, the Divine Word.
Fr. John Rajiman, SVD, Provincial of Argentina East, then welcomed the participants. In his remarks, he expressed his joy that his province had been chosen to host the Third Assembly of the Characteristic Dimensions of the PANAM Zone.
The coordinators of the four dimensions from the SVD Generalate in Rome were also introduced: Fr. Wojciech Szypuła, SVD, coordinator of the Biblical Dimension; Fr. Marcelo E. Cattáneo, SVD, coordinator of Mission Animation; Fr. Richard Quadros, SVD, coordinator of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC); and Fr. Kasmir Nema, SVD, coordinator of Communications. They will accompany the various sessions of reflection, dialogue, and discernment throughout the Assembly.
Subsequently, Fr. Nevil D’Silva, SVD, PANAM Zone Coordinator, officially presented the logo of the 2026 Zonal Assembly and thanked Fr. Luis Vergara, SVD, of Panama for his work in designing the visual identity of the event.
During the session, a team responsible for documenting and communicating the activities of the Assembly was also formed. Frs. Rafael Plato, SVD, and Samuel Sori Wekin, SVD, were appointed official photographers. Fr. José Joaquín Rodríguez, SVD, was entrusted with preparing the daily summaries, while Fr. Víctor Hirch, SVD, assumed the role of Assembly secretary.
A Shared Journey Across the PANAM Zone
In his presentation, Fr. Nevil D’Silva, SVD, offered a brief historical overview of the journey of the four dimensions in the PANAM Zone. He particularly recalled the meetings held in Quito in 2011 and 2016, which helped strengthen the understanding and integration of these dimensions within the mission of the provinces and regions.
Fr. Nevil, former Provincial of Ecuador, emphasized that every Divine Word Missionary is called to build prophetic dialogue in mission, paying attention both to local realities and to the global context.
He also stressed that the four dimensions are not the exclusive responsibility of specialists but belong to all SVD members and should be integrated across the various expressions of mission. It is not necessary to be an expert in Sacred Scripture, Communication, Mission Animation, or JPIC in order to embrace and live these dimensions. Rather, every confrere is called to be formed by them and to integrate them creatively into pastoral and missionary service.
The Dimensions as an Expression of SVD Identity
During the second session, Fr. Marcelo E. Cattáneo, SVD, presented the four characteristic dimensions from the perspective of the Generalate. His presentation invited participants to deepen their understanding of these elements of SVD identity and to move beyond a merely theoretical or sectoral approach.
He highlighted that the four dimensions should permeate spirituality, community life, and the various expressions of mission. In this way, they become concrete paths for proclaiming the Gospel, fostering prophetic dialogue, and responding to the contemporary challenges facing the Church and society.
After a break, at 3:00 p.m., participants were divided into five groups organized according to the PANAM subzones. In these groups, they shared the missionary realities of their respective provinces and regions, reflecting on experiences, strengths, and challenges related to the four dimensions.
The group work made it possible to appreciate the richness and diversity of the SVD presence across the American continent. Participants later gathered again in the community hall to share, in a plenary session, the reflections and conclusions that emerged from each group.
The Eucharist: Source of Mission
The first day of the Zonal Assembly concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the source and center of Christian and missionary life. Gathered around the table of the Word and the Eucharist, the confreres entrusted the Assembly to the Lord.
The celebration also provided an opportunity to renew their commitment to remain united in mission and to proclaim, with fidelity and creativity, the light of the Word made flesh.
