Society
Of The Divine Word

This nationwide event brought together young people and pastoral animators from diverse cultural backgrounds, all united by a shared desire to hear God’s call and discern their personal vocation. A total of 33 registered participants represented 13 nationalities (Portugal, the Philippines, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Nigeria, Kenya, Madagascar, Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Vietnam, Ghana, and Argentina) all currently living in Portugal as students, seminarians, or workers. In addition, many local parish youth took part as volunteers. It was a living image of today’s Church, vibrant, diverse, and outward-looking.

The event began on Friday evening, May 2, with a warm and heartfelt welcome at 9:30 p.m., attended by the parish priest, Fr. Luís, parishioners, and host families. Saturday opened with a deep spiritual dynamic and was followed by powerful vocational testimonies. These included the couple Nuno and Tânia, seminarian Renato (a medical doctor and missionary candidate), Sr. Maria Mendes, SSpS, and Fr. Domingos, each sharing moving accounts of their journey of commitment and mission.

Music, an expression of joy and youthfulness, was led by Filipa, Maria Inês, Francisco, and Rafael, who animated the moments of prayer and fellowship. The Eucharistic Adoration Vigil, guided by Frs. Tomás Lasi and Luís Jorge (parish priest), was enriched by music from local youth—Madalena, Rodrigo, Filipa, and Beatriz, fostering an atmosphere of reverence and praise.

The high point of the event was the Eucharistic celebration on Sunday, May 4, presided over by Fr. José Maria, Provincial Superior of the Divine Word Missionaries. The celebration coincided with Mother’s Day, a symbolic gesture of affection and gratitude toward all women who lovingly nurture and accompany vocations.