The Rockhampton Diocese's Central West cluster of parishes, under the care of Fr Van Bang Nguyen SVD, has celebrated the opening of the SVD's 150th anniversary celebrations.
The Diocesan Newsletter reported that the anniversary celebration included a procession of key symbols – a bible (for the Divine Word), a globe and the SVD banner (representing the entire world and the SVD priests and brothers who are currently ministering in 79 countries), and a candle (representing Christ’s light that they are guided by and try to share with others).
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.