The Sunday of the Word of God was celebrated across all SVD-run parishes and institutions in Botswana province. The materials provided by the Generalate Biblical Coordinator, Fr. Wojciech Szypula, were distributed to all confreres and used in each parish according to its local context.

Key highlights of the celebration included the Bible Processions and Enthronement, the blessing of the Bible, the Sunday Missal, and Bible Diaries, among others. The homilies emphasized the significance of the Word of God in personal and family life. Additionally, some parishes introduced unique activities to mark the occasion:

• St. Benedict Parish, Malamulele (South Africa): Parishioners made a commitment during the Mass to read the Bible daily.
• Divine Mercy Parish, Walkerville (South Africa): A Bible quiz was conducted after the Mass to engage parishioners and spark interest in Scripture.
• Mater Dei Pastoral Centre, Mokopane (South Africa): The Sunday of the Word of God coincided with the opening session of the 2025 Bible Studies program. On the eve of the celebration, new students participated in a candlelight procession with the Holy Bible. A special area in the classroom was decorated for the Bible Enthronement, followed by a 30-minute Bible Service in honor of the Divine Word. On Sunday morning, Biblical Adoration was incorporated into morning prayers. A dedicated Bible stand was placed in front of the chapel altar to highlight the centrality of Scripture in daily life.
• Phalaborwa Parish (South Africa): The celebration marked the launch of the Jubilee Year in each community and outstation. Newly elected Local Parish Council members and Catechists were officially commissioned during the Mass. Parishioners were introduced to various online resources to enhance their engagement with Holy Scripture. The homily, themed “Hope in the Word,” inspired the congregation to deepen their faith through Scripture. Announcements were made regarding upcoming Bible-related activities, including Bible Study, Bible Sharing, a Bible Quiz, and Biblical Adoration.
• St. Augustine’s Catholic Mission, Maun (Botswana): Parishioners attended a Bible workshop after the Mass. Bible verses were also written and displayed around the church exterior to emphasize the significance of the Word of God in daily life.

by Fr. Sunny John SVD
Bible Coordinator, Botswana Province