Society
Of The Divine Word

The main theme of the conference was a quote from the two most recent General Chapters (2018 and 2024), which emphasized that the name of the Society of the Divine Word holds a key to understanding its identity and entrusted mission. Accordingly, the conference presentations focused on these two core elements: identity and mission.

The name of the congregation originates from the Prologue of the Gospel of John. Therefore, Fr. Dr. Jan Bocian, SVD, offered a hermeneutic interpretation of several verses from this pivotal biblical text. He also highlighted nuances in translation that can vary depending on the missionary context in which the Christian community lives.

Fr. Prof. Mirosław Wróbel from the Catholic University of Lublin introduced participants to the world of Aramaic translations of the Old Testament, the very language spoken by Jesus. According to recent research, these ancient texts—without denying other possible influences—are seen as key to understanding the origins of the concept of the “Word” in reference to the Son of God.

Fr. Dr. Józef Trzebuniak, SVD, helped attendees realize that the concept of the Logos, the Second Person of the Trinity, cannot be limited to the Johannine writings (Gospel, Letters, Revelation), but extends across the entire New Testament. In particular, Church Fathers referred to Christ as the Logos not only in Johannine terms but throughout all New Testament texts.

The excellent Biblical Apostolate Coordinator of the Society, Fr. Dr. Wojciech Szypuła, SVD, from Rome, presented an analysis of the understanding of the Word of God according to Arnold Janssen. In relation to the Father, the Word of God is the Son; in relation to the Son, it is the Gospel; and in relation to the Holy Spirit, it encompasses the entire Sacred Scripture and the words of prophets, apostles, and priests—if inspired by the Holy Spirit. This rich and comprehensive concept, essential to the Society’s name, had long been underappreciated. Fr. Szypuła also shared insights into the current state of the Biblical Apostolate within the congregation.

Fr. Lic. Dariusz Pielak, SVD, attempted to synthesize the names of the male and female congregations founded by Arnold Janssen. Although the names derive from different Divine Persons, when viewed in the context of Trinitarian theology of the Word and Spirit, they are not a contrast but a complement to each other’s charism.

To close the session, Fr. Dr. habil. Tomasz Szyszka, SVD, a missiologist from Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, explored the concept of the Logos present in cultures even before the proclamation of the Gospel. This ancient idea, originating with St. Justin, remains highly relevant today—not only in traditional mission cultures but also in subcultures, such as modern youth in specific national contexts. The process of discovering “seeds of the Word” must be undertaken with deep respect and expertise. At the same time, it is a profoundly creative process, and the recent General Chapter called precisely for such creativity in approaching mission.

Each lecture was followed by a discussion and exchange of opinions, further enriching the content presented. The session was streamed online and remains available for those who could not attend live or learned about it afterward (see: www.youtube.com/@werbisci/streams).