St.
Arnold Janssen (1837-1909) was a Roman Catholic priest
and Missionary who founded three major religious
congregations dedicated to spreading the Gospel: The Society
of the Divine Word (SVD), The Missionary Sisters Servants of
the Holy Spirit (SSpS), and the Servants of the Holy Spirit of
Perpetual Adoration (SSpSAP). His life was marked by deep
faith, missionary zeal, and dedication to evangelization and
education.
Early Life
Arnold Janssen was born on November 5, 1837, in Goch, a small
town in Germany. He grew up in a devout catholic family and
showed an early interest in religion. After completing his
studies, he was ordained a priest in 1861 for the Diocese of
Munster.
Missionary Vision
While serving as a teacher of mathematics and natural
sciences, Janssen became aware of the need for a missionary
society in Germany. At the time, political and social conditions
in Germany under Bismarck’s KulturKampf (a policy aimed at
reducing the influence of the Catholic church) made it difficult
for religious organizations to operate. Despite these challenges,
Arnold felt called to found a missionary organization.
Founding of the Society of the Divine Word
In 1875, with limited resources but great trust in God, Janssen
established the society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Steyl, the
Netherlands. The location was chosen because it offered more
religious freedom than Germany. The society focused on
training priests and brothers for missionary work around the
World.
Exapansion and New Congregations
1. Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit (SSpS),
2. Servants of the Holy Spirit of Perpetual Adoration
(SSpSAP).
Missionary Achievements
Under Janssen’s leadership, the society of the divine word sent
missionaries to countries in Asia, Africa and the Americas. His
Congregations contributed significantly to spreading
Catholicism and providing social services such as education and
healthcare in remote areas.
Death And Canonization
St. Arnold Janssen died on January 15,1909, in Steyl. He was
canonized by Pope John Paul II on October 5, 2003, in
recognition of his remarkable contributions to the church and
his missionary spirit.
Legacy
Today, his congregations he founded continue to serve in over
70 countries, promoting faith, education, healthcare, and
human development.
