“The best place in the world will always be the place where God wants me to be.” — St. Joseph Freinademetz

Held every six years in accordance with the Constitutions of the Society of the Divine Word, the General Visitation is a privileged moment of grace, discernment, renewal, and missionary animation. It provides an opportunity to strengthen our identity as religious missionaries, guided by the Holy Spirit and rooted in the Word of God.

Visit to the Cuba District
The visitation began in Cuba, where the visitors received a warm welcome from the missionaries and local communities. The visit concluded with a meaningful Eucharistic celebration at Our Lady of Candelaria Parish in Morón, centered on the theme: “Rooted in the Word, Guided by the Holy Spirit, Sent on Mission.”

The visit highlighted how the Holy Spirit continues to be the true protagonist of the mission. Missionaries are called not only to carry out pastoral activities but also to be present in people’s lives, sharing in their joys, struggles, sufferings, and hopes.

Visit to the Missions in Mexico
During their time in Mexico, the visitors traveled to various missionary communities and ministries throughout the province to meet personally with the confreres and learn about their pastoral realities.

The diversity of cultures, traditions, and contexts found in Mexico and Cuba revealed the richness of the Gospel’s inculturation. The visitors witnessed how missionaries share daily life with the people they serve, accompanying them with closeness and hope amid different social and ecclesial realities.

At the same time, they emphasized that mission remains a constant challenge. Whether in remote areas or large cities, proclaiming the Gospel requires courage, creativity, and authentic witness. In a world often attracted to what is immediate and superficial, missionaries continue to be called to make the Incarnate Word present through their service and closeness to others.

A Sign of Gratitude and Hope
The visitation concluded during the Provincial Assembly. As a gesture of humility and gratitude, the visitors expressed their appreciation for the missionary work carried out by the confreres throughout the province. In a deeply meaningful moment, both stood and bowed their heads as a sign of gratitude for all they had experienced during the visitation.

The experience reaffirmed the conviction that the mission remains vibrant in Mexico and Cuba. Inspired by the charism of St. Arnold Janssen and St. Joseph Freinademetz, the missionaries continue to proclaim the Gospel and serve as signs of hope in a wounded world.

As our founder reminded us: “The proclamation of the Gospel is the highest expression of love for one’s neighbor.”