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
