What Do I Have To Do To Become a Divine Word Missionary?

The road to becoming a Divine Word Missionary is a challenging, yet joyful one that includes education, formation, prayer and cross-cultural training. Here are the steps you’ll take on your journey:

Baptism

By virtue of our baptism, we are all called to be missionaries. Ask yourself: How can I be a witness to the Kingdom of God on earth today – wherever I am?

Education and Initial Formation Program

Earning a Bachelor's degree through the undergraduate degree/formation program at Divine Word College is the initial step on your journey. If you already have a degree from another college or university you are eligible for our Associate Formation Program.

Novitiate

After completing the above programs, you will enter a canonical year of "Novitiate." At the end of this year of prayer, reflection and study, you will profess temporary vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience as a Divine Word Missionary.

Priesthood

After you finish your novitiate year, you will live at the Divine Word Theologate and complete your theology studies at Catholic Theological Union LINK (CTU) in Chicago, Illinois.

Brotherhood

If you aspire to become an SVD Brother, you will live at Wendelin House in Chicago after completing your novitiate. You may attend a local college or university to complete your education in specific fields of study, and you will also participate in ministry.

Cross-Cultural Training Program (CTP)

Before your profession of final vows, you will participate in the Cross-Cultural Training Program (CTP). This program enables you to live in another culture, learn another language and begin to minister more fully to God’s people. In most situations, you will serve your CTP in another country in Africa, Asia, South America, Europe or Oceania, for a period of one to three years.