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Spirit of Joy and Renewal Marks Closing of SVD 150th Jubilee in Madagascar
Kasmir Nema, SVD
The Diocese of Mananjary, the birthplace of the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) in Madagascar, became the heart of celebration as the Society of the Divine Word concluded its 150th Jubilee.
The historic event was crowned by the priestly ordination of Fr. Joseph Hery Joue Tovonoely, SVD, on Sunday, 7 September 2025.
The days leading up to the ordination were filled with joy, fraternity, and deep spiritual preparation. Confreres, parish delegates, and lay partners from across the diocese gathered in Mananjary, bringing with them the warmth of their communities.
Their arrival transformed the regional house into a vibrant space of welcome, where heartfelt greetings, embraces, and laughter rekindled bonds of brotherhood. Shared meals became moments of communion, as stories and simple joys wove together a spirit of thanksgiving.
At the heart of the celebration was prayer. The community entered into daily Eucharist and triduum liturgies, moments that nurtured both silence and song, opening hearts to God’s presence.
The arrival of the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Thomasz Grysa, brought added joy and encouragement, affirming the missionary journey of the SVD in Madagascar. His presence was not only an honor but also a sign of the Church’s communion and support.
Signs of new beginnings also marked the Jubilee days. The reception of five new postulants testified to the enduring vitality of the SVD charism, while the introduction of candidates and stagiaires to their communities underscored the continuity of mission.
In addition, the testimony of Deacon Joue, before his priestly ordination, inspired both confreres and lay faithful with the witness of a vocation rooted in service and hope.
As the Society looked back on 150 years of mission, the celebrations in Mananjary reflected both memory and renewal.
The joy of the community, the witness of new vocations, and the presence of the Apostolic Nuncio all pointed to a future where the Divine Word continues to be proclaimed with faith, courage, and love in Madagascar and beyond.
