Divine Word missionaries' triennial meeting on four characteristic dimensions opens in Congo

The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) officially opened its triennial meeting on the four characteristic dimensions on June 1, 2025, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. 

The weeklong gathering, held from June 1 to 8, brings together coordinators from 12 SVD provinces and regions in the AFRAM Zone (Africa and Madagascar).

The opening day began with a solemn Bible procession from the chapel to the meeting hall, symbolizing the centrality of the Word of God in the Society’s missionary life. The act set the spiritual tone for reflection, sharing, and planning around the SVD’s core missionary priorities: Mission Animation, Biblical Apostolate, Communication Ministry, and Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC).

In his welcoming remarks, Fr. Godefroid Manunga-Lukokisa, SVD, provincial superior of Congo, expressed joy in hosting the event.

He welcomed the delegates and highlighted the SVD’s presence in the Congo, noting that much of their work is focused on parish ministry. 

Among the four characteristic dimensions, he emphasized the prominence of the Biblical Apostolate in the country, which has gained recognition both within and outside the Society.

Fr. Willibroad Kamion Bhia, SVD, outgoing zonal coordinator for AFRAM, shared his reflections on the event.

“It gives me immense joy to see almost everyone present. Coordinating participation can be challenging, especially when there are delays in communication or unavoidable absences,” he said. “But to have such a strong turnout, despite a few excused absences, is very encouraging.”

He voiced his hopes for the meeting’s outcomes. “I expect that after this encounter, there will be stronger collaboration among the coordinators. Each dimension is interconnected—Biblical Apostolate needs communication; communication is linked with JPIC; and mission animation brings it all together. I hope this meeting inspires them to work as a team when they return to their provinces,” he added.

In the afternoon, the general coordinators of the four characteristic dimensions led sessions focusing on current practices, challenges, and opportunities for synergy. The presentations encouraged deeper reflection on how each dimension can be strengthened through shared mission, local relevance, and collective strategies.

Participants expressed enthusiasm for the spirit of fraternity and renewal that the gathering fosters. The meeting marks a vital step in strengthening the SVD’s missionary identity in the AFRAM Zone through collaborative, context-based, and spiritually grounded action.