Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Agenzia Fides) - The Society of the Divine Word (popularly known as Divine Word Missionaries or SVD) held its 16th General Chapter at Salesianum in Rome from June 4 - July 8, 2006. 140 capitulars and seven observers representing the 57 provinces, Regions and Missions of the SVD took part in the Chapter. Simultaneous translation was provided in English and Spanish. The General Chapter was declared opened on Pentecost Sunday (June 4) by the Superior General, Fr. Antonio Pernia. The theme of the Chapter was: Living Prophetic Dialogue. In the elections for the Administrative team for the next six years, Fr. Antonio Pernia (Philippines) was re-elected Superior General. Also re-elected were the Vice-Superior General, Fr. Konrad Keler (Poland); General Consultors Br. Alfonso Berger (Argentina) and Fr. Estanislau Chindecasse (Angola). Three new General Consultors were elected by the General Chapter: Fr. Robert Kisala (Admonitor) (Japan/USA), Fr. Gregory Pinto (India) and Fr. Arlindo Pereira Dias (Brazil). The SVD, noted for its internationality, has more than 6,100 members working in 65 countries spread in all the five continents. The Divine Word Missionaries are known for their commitment to primary evangelisation, frontier missions, Communications and the Biblical Apostolate. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 10/7/2006 - righe 17, parole 220)
