Society
Of The Divine Word

The assembly emphasized the evolving identity and growing recognition of the vital role and contributions of the lay partners as co-missionaries in God’s mission through the Society of the Divine Word. Fr. Roger Bag-ao, the SVD-PHS Provincial Superior, has strongly underscored the underrated value of the lay partners. He encouraged them to embody the Trinitarian SVD spirituality and engage in prophetic dialogue, both within and beyond traditional SVD institutions. Deepening the theme, Fr. I Wayan Heriyanto, SVD, SVD-PHS Mission Secretary, urged all to become true “missionaries of light”—those who, like Christ, point to God’s light and not their own. He reminded everyone that the mission requires kenosis, which is a self-emptying love that witnesses not by words alone but through authentic living.

There were presentations and sharing on the various activities and initiatives pursued by the different lay groups from Cebu, Bohol, and Agusan del Sur. They discussed their historical and ongoing journey and also clarified the distinctions between SVD Lay Partners and SVD Lay Missionaries, each having unique roles yet united in the same purpose.

Their sharing provided spaces for mutual learning, dialogue, and discernment. The assembly led to these four key commitments: (1) expanding membership to include more dedicated laypersons in the mission; (2) deepening formation through a stronger grounding in Arnoldus spirituality; (3) strengthening mission projects that address real human needs and promote Gospel values; and (4) enhancing financial sustainability through innovative and collaborative fundraising efforts to support the mission.

Following the sit-down sessions was the deeply moving exposure trip to the St. Arnold Janssen Village in Miramar, Talisay. The lay partners engaged with the SVD housing project’s beneficiaries by hearing firsthand testimonies of transformation, dignity, and renewed hope. These encounters powerfully illustrated how lay participation in mission is not abstract; it changes lives. Moreover, the annual gathering was further enriched by a visit and encounter with SVD parishes and communities, where participants prayed, learned from mission stories shared by SVD priests and brothers, and deepened their sense of belonging to the SVD family. On the final day, the pilgrims visited various Jubilee Churches, offering the Jubilee Prayer in unity and thanksgiving.

The assembly concluded not with an ending, but with a renewed sense of purpose and mission. Relationships were strengthened, commitments were made, and hearts were rekindled with joy. As missionaries of light, the SVD Lay Partners leave this gathering inspired to bring the light of Christ from everywhere to everyone, a living testimony to God’s love in the world.