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SVD Labuan Bajo District Marks 150th Jubilee with Faith and Culture
Daniel Fallo, SVD
Held at the sports field of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Senior High School, the celebration recalled the missionary journey of the SVD and renewed its commitment to serve the Church and society in West Manggarai.
The event brought together the Diocese of Labuan Bajo, students, cultural groups, local artisans, and residents in a festival that showcased both spiritual and cultural life. Traditional dances, musical performances, and an exhibition of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) highlighted Flores’ rich heritage while promoting local economic potential to visitors and tourists.
The celebration culminated in a solemn Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Bishop Maksimus Regus of Labuan Bajo, ordained bishop less than a year ago on November 1, 2024. In his homily, Bishop Regus gave thanks for the SVD’s missionary presence in Manggarai and urged the faithful to carry forward the legacy of the Congregation’s founder, St. Arnold Janssen.
“We give thanks to God for the presence of the Society of the Divine Word in proclaiming the Word in our land,” Bishop Regus said. “Our gratitude must be shown in our efforts to follow the example of St. Arnold Janssen, who lived simply and remained steadfast in his commitment to proclaim God’s Word despite many challenges.”
Beyond the festivities, the Jubilee also served as a moment of reflection for the SVD and the communities they serve. Local missionaries reaffirmed their commitment to biblical apostolate, education, mission animation, justice, peace and integrity of creation (JPIC), and communication, with a renewed focus on being close to the poor and marginalized.
Echoing the global jubilee theme, “Witnessing to the Light: From Everywhere, for Everyone,” the celebration in Labuan Bajo was more than a milestone. It was a call to continue making Christ present in today’s wounded world—through service, dialogue, and shared faith.
