Societas Verbi Divini

Society of the Divine Word (SVD)

Established 1875

Founded in Steyl, Holland

St. Arnold Janssen founded the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) on September 8, 1875. As Divine Word Missionaries, we are called to be witnesses of God’s love and proclaim the Good News to all peoples.

"The proclamation of the Gospel is the first and most significant act of charity."
St. Arnold Janssen
6000+
Members Worldwide
70+
Countries Reached
5
Continents Present

Our Specialization & Charism

Primary Evangelization
Family Renewal
Socio-Economic Development
Pastoral and Biblical Ministry
Mass Media Communication
Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation

About Us

Serving families with a Psycho-spiritual approach since 1979

Welcome to

SVD Prarthana Nikethan

SVD Prarthana Nikethan, a Family Renewal Centre of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD), with its unique psycho-spiritual approach, has been serving families since 1979.

As one of the first centres in Kerala to offer Couples' Retreats, we carry forward the vision of our founder, Fr. Sebastian Pottanani, SVD, who responded to God's call to promote the holistic development and renewal of families.

SVD Centre

Our History

Started by Fr. Sebastian Pottanani in 1979 with a vision of renewing families and fostering stronger relationships with God, within marriage, and among family members. By 1998, we expanded our focus through couples' retreats and initiatives that promote healthy relationships, family unity, and holistic well-being.

Our Vision

"Rooted in the Word Transforming the Families"

Our Mission

We commit ourselves to the renewal of families modelled after the Holy Trinity through retreats, psycho-spiritual programmes, counselling for couples, would-be couples, youth, children, consecrated persons, and training those who work for the promotion of the families.

Our Presence

SVD Presence in India

Began in 1932 at Indore. With 4 provinces and 1 region, Prarthana Nikethan is part of the Mumbai Province (Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra). Today, over 800 Indian SVD missionaries serve globally.

SVD Presence in Kerala

Established in Kaduthuruthy (1959-SVD PrarthanaNikethan). Key missions include St. John’s Mission Seminary (Changanacherry), Vachana Jyothi De-Addiction Centre (Kannur), and St. Arnold’s School (Aduvasserry), Migrant Ministry (Kottayam)

Present SVD Staff Members

Fr. Jacob Mulavarikkal SVD
Fr. Jacob Mulavarikkal SVD

Director

90485 37353

Fr. Moncy Zavier
Fr. Moncy Zavier

Procurator

+91 7276266345

Fr. George Manjakadambil
Fr. George Manjakadambil

Program Coordinator

8821972617

Fr. Chacko Parekatt
Fr. Chacko Parekatt

Staff

7045072144