Nkwatia: 20 take first step into religious life with Society of Divine Word

A total of twenty young men have taken what could be described as their first bold step into religious life with the Society of the Divine Word (SVD).

The men from different parts of Africa including Ghana, Togo, Tanzania, Mozambique, DR Congo, Kenya, and Madagascar, professed their first vows into the society on July 7, 2023 at the St. Peter’s SHS Chapel, Nkwatia-Kwahu in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

This comes after spending a transformative 12 months in the novitiate. The novitiate period allowed them to foster their spiritual growth, deepen their understanding of religious life, and prepare for the path they have chosen.

The newly professed are Frts. Ebenezer Nyumu Adjei SVD, Jonathan Ananga SVD, Clement Nartey Asare SVD, Enoch Brese SVD, Bright Bubune Monyo SVD, Yohanes Teye SVD, Eedm Benoit Akakpovi SVD, Jacques Modjoba Gakoh SVD, Evans Koech SVD, Constant Mwangala Mukhebi SVD, Sylvester Odour Odhiambo SVD, Dominique Maleki Kiamfu SVD, Benjamin Molapi Lobe SVD, Reginald Baltazary Mmassy SVD, Martin Theodory Kimoka SVD, Peter Elias Peter SVD, Carlos Nelson Muapanha SVD, R. N. Jean Ami Fitia SVD, Edmond Razakomandy SVD, and R. Rado Jaen Jonah SVD.

Their diverse backgrounds and origins reflect the universality of the SVD community and its mission to serve the world. As they take this momentous step, guided by their faith and with the support of their fellow SVD members, these young men embark on a lifelong commitment to spirituality, service, and spreading the message of God’s love.

About the Society of Divine Word 

The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) is a religious congregation of priests and brothers within the Catholic Church. Founded in 1875 by Saint Arnold Janssen in Steyl, Netherlands, the SVD is dedicated to missionary work and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The members of the congregation, known as Divine Word Missionaries, are committed to serving the needs of people around the world, particularly in regions where the Catholic faith is not well-established.

The primary mission of the Society of the Divine Word is to proclaim the Word of God and share the teachings of Jesus Christ. The missionaries focus on evangelization, education, and providing pastoral care to the communities they serve. Their work encompasses a wide range of activities, including running schools, hospitals, and social development programs, promoting intercultural and interreligious dialogue, and advocating for social justice and peace.

The SVD is an international community with presence in more than 80 countries across all continents. The missionaries embrace cultural diversity and strive to adapt their approach to the specific needs and customs of each region they serve. This global reach allows them to engage in cross-cultural missions, learning from and collaborating with people of diverse backgrounds and traditions.

The Society of the Divine Word places great importance on the formation and education of its members. Candidates undergo a rigorous process of spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral preparation, which typically includes periods of study, novitiate, and practical training. The formation aims to equip Divine Word Missionaries with the necessary skills, knowledge, and spiritual grounding to fulfill their missionary duties effectively.

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The SVD maintains a strong sense of community and fosters collaboration among its members. The missionaries often work in teams or within local parishes, sharing their expertise and supporting each other in their mission activities. Regular gatherings, meetings, and ongoing formation programs help to strengthen their bonds and sustain their spiritual growth.

Over the years, the Society of the Divine Word has made significant contributions to global missionary efforts and has established a reputation for its commitment to serving the marginalized, advocating for justice, and promoting intercultural understanding. The Divine Word Missionaries continue to carry out their mission with zeal and dedication, striving to bring hope, love, and the message of Christ to people in need around the world.