Coordinators of the Four Characteristic Dimensions of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in the Africa Madagascar Zone (AFram) gathered in the Capital Democratic Republic of Congo, for their triennial meeting. This meeting took place from the 1st to 7th June 2025 in Kinshasa. It was a moment of solemn reflection, development of strategies and a time to renew the missionary zeal of all the coordinators present. The four characteristic dimensions namely, Biblical Apostolate, Mission Animation, Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), and Communication are foundational to the SVD’s charism and pastoral mission. The meeting saw representatives from various provinces and regions within the Afram Zone came together for days of deep dialogue, planning, and mutual support. In his opening remarks, the Provincial Superior of the Congo province emphasized the need for greater unity and contextual responsiveness in addressing the spiritual and social challenges of the time. “I invite all of you present to reflect taking into consideration the times we are in,” he noted. The meeting featured presentations on the current state of each dimension, the success stories of each dimension, the challenges and finally the way forward to making the dimensions visible and helpful for the people the SVD serves. In attendance was also the General coordinators of the various Characteristic Dimensions of the SVD from Rome. A highlight of the gathering was the adoption of a Final Statement, which outlines the major priorities for the next three years across the Afram Zone. These include:
1. Strengthening the Biblical Apostolate by deepening Scripture engagement at all levels of society, especially among the youth and marginalized communities.
2. Collaborating with VIVAT International and implementing Laudato Si’ to promote justice, peace, and care for creation through concrete grassroots actions.
3. Enhancing collaboration with the Lay Partners of the SVD, recognizing their growing role in shared mission and leadership.
4. Educating and making use of digital media and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to innovate evangelization efforts and connect more effectively with the modern world.
The host SVD Province in Congo provided generous hospitality and an enriching cultural environment, including visits to their parishes and institutions and also to places of apostolates where the SVD’s work is visibly transforming lives.
The meeting concluded with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, led by the general coordinators from Rome.
