The SVD is establishing a new mission in the Rockhampton Diocese, based in the regional town of Emerald in Queensland’s central highlands.

The Divine Word Missionaries were invited to take up the appointment by the Bishop of Rockhampton Michael McCarthy.

As the world celebrated the 50^th anniversary of the moon landing this month, almost 20 men gathered in Queensland to mark a 50 year reunion of Divine Word Missionary seminarians.

The reunion of those who had been at the former seminary in Marburg, was held under the title of ‘Marburg Moon Muster’ and saw the coming together of men from various walks of life.

Divine Word Missionaries are present in the Brisbane Archdiocese, the Rockhampton Diocese and the Townsville Diocese in Queensland.

Most are actively involved in pastoral work, either in parishes or, for the retired members, in helping out with Masses, giving retreats, spiritual direction, mental health ministry, chaplaincy and prayer formation for adults. The Queensland parishes have strong multicultural communities and the new Rockhampton mission will also involve ministry to Aboriginal communities.