“The Society of the Divine Word in the AFRAM Zone”
Group 5 - Section V
Members:
Arabis, Fiona Rein
Betonio, Emman Necol Jhon
Bongansiso, Erica
Hora, Joshua Jay
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) is a Catholic missionary congregation dedicated to
evangelization, education, social development, and interfaith dialogue worldwide. Since its
foundation, the SVD has expanded its mission to 16 countries across Africa, bringing faith, hope,
and social transformation to diverse communities. The 16 countries of the AFRAM zone
continue to experience growth in membership and ministry as the political climate moves to a
more favorable view of missionary work. With missionaries from various cultural backgrounds,
the SVD works in partnership with local communities to address spiritual, educational, and
social needs. Through these efforts, the SVD continues to fulfill its mission of spreading God’s
Word and uplifting communities in Africa.
“Angola (1965)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD), also known as the Divine Word Missionaries, has been
active in Angola since the 20th century. Their mission focuses on evangelization, education, and
social development, aiming to serve the spiritual and material needs of the local communities.
In November 2024, during the Provincial Assembly held at the SVD Provincial House in Terra
Nova, Luanda, Fr. Nelson Manuel Hebo, the Provincial Superior of the SVD in Angola,
emphasized the need for more dedicated clergy and consecrated individuals to participate in the
Church's global mission. He highlighted the importance of vocation animation to attract more
individuals to missionary and religious life.
The Divine Word Missionaries bring the Gospel to the people of Angola, reaching out to 12
impoverished parishes across eight dioceses. The scars of ethnic clashes and the legacy of civil
war with Portugal have left many Angolans in dehumanizing poverty. They operate schools and
medical clinics to serve the community. Mobile teams of missionaries spend their nights rescuing
abandoned children from the streets, bringing them to shelters where they are given food, care,
and vocational training. Through their efforts, they are making a tangible difference in the lives
of those in need.
The SVD in Angola is committed to holistic community development, encompassing pastoral
care, education, and social services. They work in partnership with local communities to address
both spiritual and social needs, reflecting the congregation's international character.
“Benin (1987)”
Early History (1861–1960)
• The Society of African Missions (SMA) was the first to evangelize Benin in 1861, long before
SVD’s arrival.
• Benin became a French colony during the Scramble for Africa and gained independence in
1960.
• In 2011, the Catholic Church in Benin celebrated 150 years of evangelization.
SVD’s Entry and Growth (1987–Present)
• The SVD began its mission in Benin in 1987, much later than in Togo.
• Today, the SVD operates in two out of ten dioceses in Benin, mainly in northern regions.
• The SVD runs four parishes in Benin, focusing on evangelization and social outreach.
Current Missionary Activities in Benin
1.Evangelization and Pastoral Work
• Focuses on primary evangelization, particularly in remote areas.
• Provides literacy programs and catechist formation to strengthen the local Church.
2. Interreligious and Ecumenical Dialogue
• Works closely with Muslims and followers of African Traditional Religions.
• Promotes understanding and peace-building efforts through dialogue and joint activities.
3. Social Justice and Peace Efforts
• Supports educational programs for youth, especially girls in informal sector training.
• Addresses issues of poverty, inequality, and human rights violations.
4. Bible Apostolate and Communication
• Conducts Bible study sessions, annual Bible Week, and theological training.
• Uses media outreach (radio, newsletters, digital publications) to spread the message.
5. Challenges and Future Directions
• Financial Independence: Benin’s SVD mission is still financially dependent but is exploring
self-sustaining projects.
• Formation & Leadership: Encouraging local vocations to strengthen the mission.
• Lay Participation: Expanding the SVD Friends and Associates programs to involve more local
leaders.
“Botswana (1981)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) initiated its mission in Botswana in 1981, responding to a
request from the Bishop of Gaborone. The first SVD missionaries arrived in Francistown, a town
with approximately 25,000 inhabitants at that time.
The primary purpose of the SVD's mission in Botswana is to spread the Good News and serve
the local communities. Their ministries encompass evangelization, education, health services,
and social development. They focus on pastoral care, visiting families, and ministering to
Christian communities and prayer groups. Additionally, they operate schools and are involved in
health education, catechetics, Scripture study, environmental issues, and support for unemployed
young people.
In Botswana, the SVD collaborates with local communities and professional laypeople. A
notable initiative is "Catholic Safaris," which offers safari experiences from a Catholic
perspective. This venture supports local projects, creates job opportunities, and generates income
for families. The center serves the Catholic mission territory of the northern and western parts of
Botswana.
The SVD's mission in Botswana is carried out by missionaries from various countries, reflecting
the international character of the congregation. They work in partnership with local communities,
aiming to address the spiritual and social needs of the people they serve.
“Chad (2003)”
Primary evangelization remains the driving force behind the continued presence of the Divine
Word Missionaries in this country. This missionary context presents significant challenges, as the
dialogue partners include Muslims and members of various Christian churches. Despite these
challenges, all the Catholic bishops in Chad are eager to have the Divine Word Missionary
presence in their dioceses, welcoming them to share the missionary charism and contribute to the
spiritual development of their communities. Through their work, the missionaries aim to foster
unity, peace, and understanding amidst the religious diversity in the region. The SVD's presence
in Chad is characterized by their dedication to serving marginalized communities, fostering
education, and addressing pressing social issues. Through their various initiatives, they aim to
bring about positive change and hope to the people of Chad.
“Congo (1951)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has a significant presence in the Democratic Republic of
Congo, where they focus on evangelization, education, and social services. The missionaries
work tirelessly to support the local communities, running schools, providing pastoral care, and
ministering to the poor and marginalized. One notable missionary, Frt. Giresse-Mecene Etung,
has dedicated his efforts to helping street children who have been abandoned by their families
due to accusations of witchcraft.
The SVD missionaries have established safe centers for these children, offering them education
and emotional support. Their work is driven by a commitment to spreading the Gospel and
promoting a culture of life and peace in the region.
“Ghana (1938)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has had several notable missionaries in Ghana over the
years. One prominent figure is *Bishop Emmanuel Fianu*, who is the Catholic Bishop of the
Diocese of Ho, Ghana. He has been actively involved in the SVD's mission and was elected as
the vice president of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference. Another significant missionary is
Fr. Clement Baffoe, who has contributed to various SVD initiatives in Ghana.
In Ghana, the SVD's mission was similarly focused on evangelization, education, and healthcare. The
society established schools, hospitals, and health clinics to cater to the needs of the local populations.
Their educational initiatives ranged from primary to secondary schools, aiming to provide quality
education while promoting Catholic values and spirituality. In addition to education, the SVD
operated several hospitals and health clinics, offering medical care that often focused on community
health, including preventive care, maternal health, and treatment of infectious diseases.
The society engages with local cultures, respecting and incorporating traditional practices while
promoting Christian values, and works closely with local leaders and communities to ensure their
efforts are culturally sensitive and effective. Despite facing challenges such as political instability,
security concerns, and limited resources, the SVD remains committed to its mission of evangelization
and service to the poor.
The leadership of the SVD plays a crucial role in guiding these efforts, ensuring that the society's
mission is carried out effectively and with compassion. The minister of the SVD in Ghana, along
with other regional leaders, works diligently to oversee the various projects and ensure that the
missionary work aligns with the society's core values. These leaders are dedicated individuals who
live out the values of the SVD through their service, embodying the spirit of Saint Arnold Janssen
and his vision for a world transformed by the power of faith and love.
“Kenya (1984)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Kenya has been led by various dedicated missionaries
over the years. One notable figure is Fr. Joseph Freinademetz, who was one of the early
missionaries sent to China but whose influence extended to other regions, including Kenya. The
SVD's work in Kenya has been carried forward by many other missionaries who have
contributed to education, healthcare, and social justice initiatives.
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has been making significant contributions in Kenya,
fostering community development, education, and intercultural dialogue. Established in 1970,
the SVD in Kenya has since grown to encompass numerous parishes, schools, and social
projects. Their missionary work is deeply rooted in the principles of service, compassion, and
respect for diverse cultures and traditions. Education is a cornerstone of their mission, with
several schools and vocational training centers established to empower local communities,
particularly the youth, by providing them with quality education and skills necessary for
self-reliance. Additionally, the SVD's healthcare initiatives have greatly improved access to
medical services in underserved areas, addressing critical health issues and promoting overall
well-being. The society also places a strong emphasis on social justice, advocating for the rights
of marginalized groups and working towards the eradication of poverty. Through their dedication
and tireless efforts, the SVD has become a beacon of hope and transformation, positively
impacting countless lives across Kenya. Their work exemplifies a harmonious blend of faith and
practical action, inspiring communities to thrive both spiritually and materially.
“Madagascar (1989)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Madagascar has been instrumental in fostering
spiritual growth and community development since their arrival in 1990. The first group of SVD
missionaries, originally from Indonesia, embarked on their mission to Madagascar after learning
French and undergoing pastoral preparation. Over the years, their numbers have grown, and they
have expanded their services to various regions, including the diocese of Mananjary. The SVD
missionaries have focused on primary evangelization, establishing new Christian communities
and ensuring their religious and spiritual growth through constant visits and collaboration with
lay people, especially catechists. Their efforts have been crucial in addressing the high poverty
rates in Madagascar by promoting education, healthcare, and social justice initiatives.
One notable figure in the SVD mission in Madagascar is Fr. Albert Mamonjisoa, the first
Malagasy Divine Word Missionary Priest. As the SVD mission secretary in the Madagascar
region, Fr. Albert has been dedicated to fostering awareness of the call to mission and promoting
the involvement of lay people in the church. His work emphasizes the importance of Mission
Animation, which invites lay partners to actively participate in spreading the good news of God's
kingdom. Fr. Albert's efforts have been pivotal in overcoming challenges such as translating the
Gospel's message into the local context and addressing the time constraints of modern society.
The SVD in Madagascar continues to thrive despite the economic challenges faced by the
country. Their mission is characterized by four dimensions: Bible, Justice and Peace, Integrity of
Creation, and Mission Animation. These dimensions guide their apostolic work, which includes
organizing biblical seminars, promoting social justice, and advocating for the protection of the
environment. The SVD missionaries have celebrated significant milestones, such as the 25th
anniversary of their mission in Madagascar, which was marked by the ordination of their third
Malagasy confrere, Fr. Lucien Andriamiandosoa. Their dedication and commitment have
resulted in the baptism of nearly 1,000 new members annually in the Mananjary district,
highlighting the positive impact of their mission.
“Mozambique (1911)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has been active in Mozambique since 1911, focusing on
evangelization and community development. Their mission encompasses pastoral care,
education, health services, and social development. Missionaries engage in visiting families,
ministering to Christian communities and prayer groups, operating schools, and addressing
issues such as health education, catechetics, Scripture study, environmental concerns, and
support for unemployed youth. Prominent figures in the SVD's Mozambique mission include Fr.
Paul Nadolny, SVD, who was an advocate for the poor in Mozambique and Mexico.
For nearly 100 years, the Divine Word Missionaries were repeatedly denied re-entry to this
former Portuguese colony following their initial attempt in 1911. It wasn’t until 1997, five years
after the peace accords were signed, that four members of the Society were able to return to the
country. Since then, the missionaries in the region have focused their efforts on supporting
families and providing formation for the youth through education and catechesis. Their work
aims to empower the next generation while strengthening the foundation of families in the
communities they serve.
“South Africa (2003)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has been active in South Africa since the 20th century,
focusing on evangelization and community service. Their ministries include pastoral care,
education, health services, and social development. Missionaries engage in visiting families,
ministering to Christian communities and prayer groups, operating schools, and addressing
issues such as health education, catechetics, Scripture study, environmental concerns, and
support for unemployed youth.
In South Africa, the SVD operates in areas such as Phalaborwa, Polokwane, and Pretoria. Their
work includes pastoral care, education, and social development, aiming to address the spiritual
and social needs of the communities they serve.
Some of the prominent SVD missionaries in South Africa include Fr. Gabriel Afagbegee,
director of Lumko Pastoral Institute in Johannesburg; Fr. Sunny Vattaparayil, director of Mater
Dei Pastoral Centre; Fr. Simon Nyirenda, a missionary at Lumko Institute; and Bro. Raul Santos,
also serving at Lumko Institute. Their efforts reflect the international character of the
congregation and its mission to uplift communities through faith and service.
The SVD's mission in South Africa is carried out by missionaries from various countries,
reflecting the international character of the congregation. They work in partnership with local
communities, aiming to address the spiritual and social needs of the people they serve.
“South Sudan (2012)”
The Church is one of the few institutions in South Sudan that has the credibility, capacity, and
presence to effectively address the challenges faced by this nation, which has been torn apart by
civil war. Every day, between 2,000 and 3,000 people flee South Sudan, seeking refuge in
reception centers in Uganda. Despite initial setbacks in the refugee settlements, many people are
slowly adjusting to their new circumstances. As long as South Sudanese refugees continue to live
in the various refugee settlements in Uganda, the Divine Word Missionaries remain committed to
providing pastoral and spiritual care, ensuring that their needs are met in this difficult time.
“Tanzania (2001)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) is a Roman Catholic missionary religious congregation.
The SVD has a significant presence in Tanzania, where they focus on evangelization, education,
and social development. The missionaries work in various parishes, schools, and healthcare
facilities, providing spiritual and material support to the local communities. Their efforts are
aimed at promoting a culture of life and peace, addressing issues such as ethnic tension,
HIV/AIDS, and lack of access to health services and clean drinking water
In Tanzania, the SVD missionaries are involved in primary evangelization, which remains the
driving force behind their continued presence in the country. They engage in dialogue with
Muslims and members of various Christian churches, fostering interfaith understanding and
cooperation. The missionaries also focus on building schools and medical clinics, providing
education and healthcare services to the underserved populations. Their work is crucial in
addressing the challenges faced by the people of Tanzania, including poverty, disease, and social
inequality
The SVD missionaries in Tanzania are part of a larger network of Divine Word Missionaries
serving in 17 African countries. Their work in Tanzania is characterized by a commitment to the
promotion of human dignity and the empowerment of local communities. Through their various
initiatives, the SVD missionaries strive to create a more just and equitable society, where
everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Their dedication to the people of Tanzania is a testament
to their faith and their mission to serve the most vulnerable and marginalized members of society
“Togo (1892)”
Early History (1892–1918)
• The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) began its mission in Togo on August 27, 1892.
• This was in response to a request from Pope Leo XIII, who tasked Arnold Janssen, the SVD
founder, with sending missionaries.
• The first SVD missionaries were five Germans (three brothers and two priests).
• Franz Wolf SVD was consecrated as Togo’s first Catholic bishop in 1914.
• However, World War I (1914–1918) forced the deportation of all German missionaries,
marking a temporary halt in their presence.
• After the war, Togo became a French colony, and the Society of African Missions (SMA) took
over the leadership of the Catholic Church in the country.
SVD’s Return and Growth (1974–Present)
• The SVD returned to Togo in 1974, re-establishing their missionary work.
• Today, the SVD is active in five out of seven dioceses in Togo.
• They operate nine parishes and are in the process of establishing a tenth parish near the Islamic
town of Sokodé to promote interreligious dialogue.
• SVD missionaries in Togo also engage in formation, education, social justice, and
evangelization.
Current Missionary Activities in Togo
1. Primary Evangelization
• Strengthens the faith through Bible courses, literacy programs, and catechist training.
• Focuses on pastoral planning for effective community outreach.
2. Interreligious Dialogue
• Works with Muslims and African Traditional Religious groups to promote peaceful
coexistence.
• Engages in ecumenical partnerships with Presbyterian and Methodist churches.
3. Justice, Peace, and Reconciliation
• Supports youth education, women’s empowerment, and social justice programs.
• Assists HIV/AIDS-affected individuals and families in collaboration with SSpS sisters.
4. Biblical Apostolate
• Organizes Bible study programs, Bible Week events, and correspondence courses.
• Distributes biblical materials through publishing houses such as Verbum Bible.
5. Mission Animation and Communication
• Engages lay groups like Friends of the SVD and SVD Associates.
• Uses radio, books, and digital media to spread the Gospel.
“Uganda (2013)”
Bishop Michael Blume, SVD is a prominent Divine Word Missionary (SVD) associated with
Uganda, serving as the Apostolic Nuncio (Vatican ambassador) to the country.
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has been actively involved in Uganda, focusing on
evangelization, education, and social development. The SVD missionaries work in various
parishes, schools, and healthcare facilities, providing spiritual and material support to the local
communities. Their efforts are aimed at promoting a culture of life and peace, addressing issues
such as ethnic tension, HIV/AIDS, and lack of access to health services and clean drinking water.
The missionaries engage in dialogue with Muslims and members of various Christian churches,
fostering interfaith understanding and cooperation. They also focus on building schools and
medical clinics, providing education and healthcare services to the underserved populations
In Uganda, the SVD missionaries are part of a larger network of Divine Word Missionaries
serving in multiple African countries. Their work in Uganda is characterized by a commitment to
the promotion of human dignity and the empowerment of local communities. Through their
various initiatives, the SVD missionaries strive to create a more just and equitable society, where
everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Their dedication to the people of Uganda is a testament to
their faith and their mission to serve the most vulnerable and marginalized members of society
“Zambia (1986)”
The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) has been active in Zambia since the 20th century,
focusing on evangelization and community development. Their mission encompasses pastoral
care, education, health services, and social development. Missionaries engage in visiting
families, ministering to Christian communities and prayer groups, operating schools, and
addressing issues such as health education, catechetics, Scripture study, environmental concerns,
and support for unemployed youth. Prominent figures in the SVD's Zambia mission include Fr.
John Yangia, SVD, who was ordained in 2018 and has since taken on various roles within the
congregation.
A notable example of their work is the Holy Family Parish in Linda, located approximately 20
kilometers from Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia. Established as a parish in 2009 and entrusted
to the Divine Word Missionaries in 2011, it serves a young community with many young
families and a significant number of youths. The parish comprises 15 Small Christian
Communities (SCCs) in the main church and 2 SCCs in its outstation. Recognizing the need for
ongoing education and laity formation, the parish undertakes various pastoral duties, including:
1. Constructing a parish house, with completion anticipated by 2024.
2. Annually purchasing citrus fruit tree plants, supported by subsidies from the Generalate,
and distributing them to parishioners to mitigate climate change effects, aligning with
Pope Francis's "Laudato Si'" initiative.
3. Conducting workshops on Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) issues.
4. Organizing leadership workshops for both youths and adults.
5. Holding annual biblical workshops.
6. Providing catechetical workshops.
7. Offering ongoing liturgical formation workshops.
8. Facilitating ongoing formation workshops for the parish pastoral team.
These initiatives reflect the SVD's commitment to holistic community development and spiritual
growth in Zambia. The mission is carried out by missionaries from various countries, reflecting
the international character of the congregation. They work in partnership with local communities,
aiming to address the spiritual and social needs of the people they serve.
“Zimbabwe (1986)”
The first Divine Word Missionaries came to Zimbabwe in 1986 when the Diocese of Bulawayo
suffered a loss of missionaries due to killings and political violence.
Bishop Henry Karlen CMM invited us to the Plumtree area as our first mission and it became
very fruitful cooperation. Nowadays, the country administers 3 city parishes and 3 rural missions
of the diocese and our confrere Alex Kaliyanil was ordained as its archbishop. They work also in
another two Zimbabwean dioceses and in various special apostolates.
Divine Word missionaries have been working in Zimbabwe for more than a century, bringing the
good news of the Gospel to communities across the country. From humble beginnings along the
Zambezi River, they steadily grew their presence throughout Zimbabwe over time, establishing
churches and schools that helped to educate the people and spread the word of God. Today,
Divine Word missionaries continue to play an important role in Zimbabwe, bringing hope and
support to communities throughout the country.
Divine Word missionaries first arrived in Zimbabwe at the turn of the 20th century, when several
priests and brothers traveled to the Zambezi River region to spread the word of God to local
communities. Over time, their presence grew throughout the country, as they established
churches and schools that helped educate people and bring them closer to Christ. Today, Divine
Word missionaries continue to play an important role in Zimbabwean society, working to spread
the Gospel and support communities throughout the country.
One of the primary ways in which Divine Word missionaries have helped to educate the people
of Zimbabwe is through their schools and educational programs. They have established schools
and training centers that provide education at all levels, from preschool to university, and help to
prepare Zimbabweans for careers in a wide range of fields. Additionally, they offer scholarships
to students who show promise and potential, giving them the opportunity to pursue their dreams
and reach their full potential.
As dedicated and passionate missionaries, Divine Word missionaries have been at the forefront
of spreading the good news of the Gospel and supporting communities in Zimbabwe for over a
century. Their work in education has helped to create a more educated and informed population,
and their churches and religious institutions have served as a source of support and inspiration
for many Zimbabweans. Despite the challenges that continue to face Zimbabwe today, Divine
Word missionaries work will undoubtedly continue to have a positive impact on society for many
years to come. Whether working in education, religion, or community outreach, Divine Word
missionaries have played an essential role in shaping Zimbabwean society over the past century.
Through their hard work and dedication, they have helped to create a better future for
generations of Zimbabweans to come, and their impact will be felt long into the future.
