2024 Dei Verbum Course in Plumtree (Zimbabwe)
Ilizwi Biblical Center hosted a Dei Verbum Course from 21 July to 16 August, with the theme “Missionary Disciples of the Word.”
The recently concluded month-long Dei Verbum Course at Ilizwi Biblical Center, 21 July - 16 August, run by the Divine Word Missionaries in Zimbabwe, was a remarkable journey into the depths of Scripture and its application in the mission of the Church. With the theme “Missionary Disciples of the Word,” and the subtheme “Remain in My Word” the course attracted 49 participants from eight African countries, including Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, DR Congo, Zimbabwe, and one participant from India. Among the attendees were 6 priests and 9 religious sisters, highlighting the diverse representation of the Church.
The workshop was divided into four weeks, each with a unique focus. The first week centered on the pastoral reading of the Bible, exploring methods like Biblio-drama, Bibliolog and Bible sharing. This week laid the foundation for participants to engage with Scripture in a meaningful and transformative way.
The second week delved into the Old Testament, where participants were enriched by the teachings of Fr. Joe Ncube, SVD. This week offered a deep dive into Judeo Scripture, providing valuable insights that illuminated the roots of the Christian faith.
In the third week, Dr. Fr. Wojciech, SVD, led participants through the New Testament, unveiling the life and teachings of Christ and the early Church. This exploration of the New Testament was crucial for understanding the mission and message of Jesus in the context of modern discipleship.
The final week brought a practical focus on various dimensions of mission. Topics included the pastoral dimension of the mission, that is, biblical apostolate, homiletics, Inculturation, synodality and mission animation with children, youth and Small Christian Communities from a number of facilitators. Notably, this week also featured a presentation on digital evangelization and artificial intelligence, which I facilitated, showcasing the intersection of faith and technology in contemporary mission work.
The course began with a day of recollection, followed by Mass celebrated by Archbishop Alex Thomas SVD of Bulawayo. The event, long anticipated since the last Dei Verbum course in Zimbabwe in 2016, concluded with a shared sense of renewal and commitment to missionary discipleship. Given its success, there is a strong intention to make this workshop an annual event, with hopes of attracting even more participants next year, continuing to empower and inspire those who seek to spread the Word of God in diverse and dynamic ways.
Frt. Busani Lunga, SVD
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