In a significant gathering at Rome's Pontifical Gregorian University from March 27 to 29, over 200 missionary scholars, theologians, and practitioners from around the world assembled to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), also known as the Verbites. The conference, themed "Missio Dei in Today’s World: Healing Wounds, Challenged by Postmodernity, Learning from Cultures, Inspired by Religions," provided a platform for profound reflection on the evolving nature of missionary work in contemporary society.
Founded in 1875 by Saint Arnold Janssen, the SVD has expanded its presence to 79 countries, with a membership exceeding 5,700 missionaries dedicated to spreading the Gospel and engaging in diverse ministries. The conference's multifaceted theme underscored the society's commitment to addressing modern challenges through a missionary lens.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing the necessity of adaptability and openness in missionary endeavors. He highlighted the importance of understanding and integrating into various cultural contexts to effectively convey the message of Christ.
A notable keynote speech was presented by Fr. Stephen Bevans, SVD, Professor Emeritus at Catholic Theological Union. He articulated the concept of 'Missio Dei,' focusing on the imperative for missionaries to be agents of healing in a fragmented world. Fr. Bevans stressed that the mission is not solely about conversion but about embodying the love and compassion inherent in the Gospel.
The conference featured a diverse array of speakers, including former Philippine Senator Leila de Lima and Ghanaian Franciscan friar Joseph Kwame Blay, who shared insights on the Church's role in advocating for human rights and social justice. Their contributions highlighted the intersection of faith and activism, reinforcing the missionary call to stand in solidarity with marginalized communities.
Fr. Kasmir Nema, the SVD General Communications Coordinator, reflected on the conference's significance, noting that it served as a testament to the society's enduring commitment to dialogue and collaboration. He emphasized the importance of listening to diverse voices within the Church and the broader global community to foster a more inclusive and effective missionary approach.
As the Society of the Divine Word celebrates this milestone, the conference in Rome stands as a pivotal moment for introspection and forward-thinking. It reaffirms the Verbites' dedication to their founding principles while embracing the complexities of modern missionary work. The gathering not only honored the rich history of the SVD but also charted a course for its future endeavors in bringing the Gospel to a rapidly changing world.