It takes many years of study, preparation and formation before a young man professes final vows with the Society of the Divine Word and begins his full-time ministry. If you are answering God’s call to a life of missionary service, your journey begins as a student at Divine Word College seminary in Epworth, Iowa. After graduation, you will complete a year of prayer, study and discernment at the Divine Word Novitiate at Techny, Illinois. Next, as a priest or Brother candidate, you will continue with theology and other studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Overseas training and work in various ministries complete your educational, personal and spiritual development. Finally, you will become an ordained SVD priest or professed SVD Brother, ready to serve in any of over 70 countries where the SVD ministers.
Priest
As SVD missionary priests, we spread the Word of God throughout the world in a wide range of ministries. We work first and foremost where the gospel has not been preached at all or only insufficiently and where the local church is not viable on its own. Take a few moments to read some of our stories and meet SVD priests who work in challenging, rewarding and inspiring ministries. View Priest Profiles
Brother
As Divine Word Missionary Brothers, we bring a wide range of talents to the missionary endeavor and fulfill vital roles in various ministries. We teach, build churches and schools and work in agricultural development. Wherever we are needed, you will find us, forming the core of SVD missionary ministry. Read more about us… View Brother Profiles
College Seminarian
As college seminarians, we are involved in the first step on our journey to become a Divine Word Missionary. As the only Roman Catholic missionary college seminary in the United States, Divine Word College in Epworth, Iowa, prepares us academically, spiritually and personally to discern God’s call. Get to know our seminarians as we share our experiences with you! View College Seminarian Profiles
Novitate
As SVD novices, we spend a year at the Divine Word Novitiate at Techny, Illinois, after our graduation from Divine Word College. Our days are filled with prayer, reflection and study of the Society of the Divine Word religious community, helping us to answer the question: Is this what God is asking of me? Share our insights and experiences as novices… View Novitate Profiles
Theology Seminarian
As theology seminarians, we are completing the graduate program in theological education at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, Illinois and ministry formation at Divine Word Theologate. Our vocational journey at the Theologate includes living in a multicultural environment of study, ministry and spiritual growth, and is a focused preparation for ordination to the priesthood. Read more about our experiences at the Divine Word Theologate…
View Theology Seminarian Profiles