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The SVD Ghana Media (Verbo Media) has been facing a series of alarming security breaches, with repeated attacks by robbers and hooligans threatening its mission of evangelization and media outreach.The wave of incidents began when a supposed customer requested to use the facility’s washroom, only for staff to later discover that a hard drive had gone missing. This was followed by multiple robbery operations targeting the media center on different occasions, leading to substantial losses.The most devastating of these incidents occurred in January 2025 when robbers forcefully entered the facility by destroying the electrified burglary-proof window. They looted various pieces of essential media equipment, further crippling the center’s ability to function. As if the thefts were not enough, an act of pure vandalism soon followed. In a nighttime attack, an unidentified hooligan used a large stone to shatter the facility’s big glass display window. While nothing was stolen in this particular incident, the act sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns over the safety and security of the center. Items stolen and destroyed are ranging at about 80,000 Ghana cedis. The director of Verbo media, Rev. Fr. Rex A. Vegbey, SVD express the extent of the damage these vandalism and robberies have caused to the operations of the institution. “These robberies have reversed our efforts in equipping the centre with the necessary gear. We have lost a chunk of the province files including videos and photos which were on the Hard drives as we could not afford back-up drives”, he said. He added that due to fear of the return of the robbers, the workers of the facility are living in fear, this has even affected how customer are served at the facility. “We are scared at the facility as we suspect the robbers may return during the day since the night did not give them the money they were expecting. This has made us to shut the door to the shop and serving customers through a pigeon hole. As a result, customers have no access to see the items displayed in the shop. We are confused as to what to do. The scare has heightened with the recent killings of momo cashiers as reported in the media. About a week ago two motor riders attacked a ‘koko’ (Ghanaian local porridge) seller in front of our facility and made away with her morning sales. Only last week, a hooligan destroyed our sign-post.’. The management of the facility are appealing to the general public to help the facility in anyway they can to help improve their security and also restock the place.

The Divine Word Catholic Conference Center in Adoagyiri-Nsawam, buzzed with energy from March 21st to 23rd as the SVD Lay Partners of the Ghana-Liberia Province came together for an uplifting and transformative congress themed “The SVD Lay Partners in the Church’s Mission.” This gathering was more than just an event; it was a heartfelt call to deepen their commitment to the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) and the wider mission of the Church. Over the course of three days, attendees were treated to a series of enlightening presentations, engaging discussions, and a revitalized sense of purpose. The opening session kicked off with a thought-provoking presentation by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Danso Abeam, SVD, who took everyone on a journey through the rich history of the SVD Lay Partners and the legacy of St. Arnold Janssen. He emphasized how St. Arnold’s vision for lay involvement was all about empowering everyday people to become extraordinary missionaries. Fr. Abeam also highlighted how the General Chapters have evolved the role of Lay Partners over the years. The 16th General Chapter recognized the strong attraction to the SVD Charism, the 17th officially welcomed Lay Partners into the Arnoldus family, the 18th focused on sharing the charism with them, and the recent 19th General Chapter called for concrete actions to enhance their role in mission work. Rev. Fr. Samuel Adu, SVD, delivered a passionate address that got to the core of the congress theme. He stressed that mission isn’t just a task; it’s a divine calling (Missio Dei). He encouraged Lay Partners to embrace their roles with enthusiasm and to actively participate in evangelization in every aspect of their lives—whether at work, in their communities, or during everyday interactions. Fr. Titus Tuoyintir, SVD, enriched the discussions with his compelling insights on SVD spirituality. He spoke about the congregation’s Trinitarian spirituality and its steadfast commitment to the Divine Word, inspiring Lay Partners to see themselves as missionaries of the Word in today’s world. A standout moment of the congress was the enthusiastic involvement of the Provincial, which truly highlighted the spirit of collaboration and commitment among all participants. Another highlight of the congress was the election of new National Executives, a crucial step in strengthening the leadership and mission of the Lay Partners in the Ghana-Liberia Province. The newly elected officers are: •             Agnes Cobbinah – President •             Thomas Toyibu Imoro – Vice President •             Irene Atignongo – Secretary •             Christiana Mba – Assistant Secretary •             Martin Kumedzro – Financial Secretary •             Matilda J. A. Baah – Treasurer •             George Akansi – Organizer As the congress concluded, a renewed sense of purpose filled the air. The Lay Partners left with a deeper understanding of their mission, energized by the words of St. Arnold Janssen and the directives of the General Chapters. With unwavering commitment, they stand ready to be the light in a wounded world, carrying forward the vision of the 19th General Chapter and embracing their role as vibrant missionaries of the Divine Word.

On February 28, 2025, the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Ghana-Liberia Province, Northern Zone Arnoldus Family, celebrated an incredible milestone – its 150th anniversary Symposium. The event took place at St. Victor’s Major Seminary, Assembly Hall in Tamale, and brought together a vibrant gathering of a bishop, priests, religious, seminarians, SVD lay associates, and esteemed guests. The symposium was a heartwarming reflection on the SVD’s remarkable contributions to evangelization, development, and intercultural dialogue in the Ghana Liberia province. Bishop Vincent Sowah Boi-Nai, SVD, set a nostalgic tone as he shared his journey as a young priest assigned to Yendi, then under the Tamale Archdiocese. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the SVD, saying, “What I am today, it is because of the Society of the Divine Word, SVD.” His inspiring words encouraged young missionaries to immerse themselves in their assignments, learn from the communities they serve, and seek wisdom from experienced mentors. Rev. Fr. Cyprian Kuupol, SVD, Provincial Superior of the Ghana-Liberia Province, delivered an impassioned keynote address. He highlighted the SVD’s unwavering dedication to evangelization, development, and intercultural dialogue despite facing numerous challenges over the decades. Fr. Kuupol proudly noted the SVD’s global reach, with 187 confreres in the Ghana Province, 5,641 confreres worldwide, and representation from 76 nationalities. Professor Edward Salifu Mahama, the main speaker, captivated the audience with his reflections on the SVD’s 150-year legacy of faith in action. He emphasized that the SVD has been a beacon of hope in the Yendi Diocese, spreading the gospel and transforming lives. Prof. Salifu lauded the SVD’s pivotal role in conflict resolution, education, and community development in the Yendi Diocese. He challenged the SVD to continue empowering local communities and harness the power of technology to enhance their work in rural areas. A thought-provoking panel discussion on “The Future of Evangelisation, Development, and Intercultural Dialogue in the Tamale Ecclesiastical Province: A Collaborative Effort with the Society of the Divine Word” was moderated by Rev. Fr. Dr. Mathias Mornah, Dean of Studies at St. Victor’s Major Seminary. The panel featured insightful contributions from Rev. Fr. Stephen Dogodzi, SVD, Rev. Fr. Samuel Yaw Adu, SVD, and Madam Tamara Amina Sulemana. Sr. Adeline Ayivor, SSpS, Chairperson of the event, delivered a poignant reminder: “As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that our mission is not just about the past, but about the present and the future. Let us continue to work together to spread the Good News and to serve the people of God.” The symposium was a jubilant and reflective celebration of 150 years of dedication and service by the SVD. It also underscored the ongoing mission to evangelize, develop, and foster intercultural dialogue in the Tamale Ecclesiastical Province and beyond. By Bro. Claret-Anthony Senam Kofi Akakpo SVD Postulant  

In a significant boost to the operational capacity of the common formation center (CFC) in Tamale, a fleet of motorbikes has been procured for the formation house though the projects and Development office of the society of the Divine Word (SVD) Ghana Liberia province. The donation aims to enhance the formation houses outreach programs and facilitate mobility of staff and students of the center. During a short handing over ceremony at the common formation center, Fr. Tomy Thomas rector of the Common formation center expressed deep gratitude to the SVD projects and development office for the timely and thoughtful gesture. “this is a Christmas gift to CFC to boost weekend apostolates and local transportation,” he said. He further expressed gratitude to the whole Ghana province and the benefactors of the center, “we acknowledge with gratitude the efforts of our benefactors and all those who were involved in getting these bikes for use”.

The Divine Word Novitiate hosted a five-day Vocation Promotion Program under the theme “Embracing God’s Call: A Journey of Unwavering Obedience and Liberation.” The event brought together aspirants and facilitators for spiritual reflections, engaging talks, and missionary insights. This program came off on the 15-19th January 2024. The program began on January 15 with an Opening Mass at 5:00 p.m. to commemorate the Feast of St. Arnold Janssen, the founder of the SVD congregation. The evening continued with participant introductions, committee formation, and a film screening to foster fellowship. On January 16, Fr. Lambert Assogba, SVD, led a powerful recollection on the program’s theme, encouraging participants to embrace God’s call with courage and obedience. After lunch, Fr. Titus guided an insightful talk on Discerning a Vocation in a Wounded World. Scholastic Frt. Michael Kwabi, SVD, from Brazil, provided a historical perspective on the founding generation of the SVD. The third day featured enriching presentations by Fr. Wilfred D’Souza, SVD, on the congregation’s characteristic dimensions and charisms, and Br. McDaniel, who spoke passionately about The Identity and Mission of SVD Brothers in the Church. In the afternoon, Fr. Edward Gozo, SVD, and Fr. Edmund Owusu, SVD, captivated aspirants with their missionary experiences in Brazil and the Netherlands, respectively. January 18 highlighted vocation beyond religious life. Mr. Biney, a marriage counsellor from St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Nkawkaw, spoke on Marriage as a Vocation in the Church, while Mrs. Agnes Cobbinah, an SVD lay partner, emphasized the vital role of lay partners and the laity in seminary formation. The day concluded with a presentation on SVD Formation programs and general requirements by Br. Charles Ashun, SVD. The program culminated on January 19 with a solemn Vocation Promotion Mass at St. Peter’s Senior High School, presided by Fr. Titus in the absence of the District Superior, Fr. Lambert Assogba, SVD. Participants expressed deep gratitude for the spiritually uplifting experience and left with renewed commitment to answering God’s call.

The Divine word catholic conference center has expressed heartfelt gratitude after receiving two new vehicles from generous donors in a recent heartwarming gesture aimed at supporting the centers activities and daily operations. The vehicles, donated by Miva, and the orthopedic center are expected to significantly enhance the centers ability to operate well, including administrative activities, transportation for supplies and the like. Taking hold of the vehicles, the director of the center Fr. Samuel Barkono, SVD, emphasized the impact of the donation on the mission of the center. He expressed gratitude to the stakeholders who helped to make this possible. Worth mentioning is Fr. Cyprian Kupool, SVD the provincial superior of the society of the Divine word Ghana province and his council. He also thanked the province treasurer and all donors both local and international for their help in securing the vehicles. The Divine Word Catholic Conference Centre (DWCCC) is a multi-purpose facility operated by the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Ghana. The center serves as a venue for religious gatherings, retreats, workshops, conferences, and other events organized by both the SVD and external groups.