On a momentous day in Rome, June 3, 2025, VIVAT International celebrated its 25th anniversary, reflecting on a quarter-century of powerful advocacy and global justice work. The event brought together religious leaders, diplomats, and advocates to honor an organization that has become a powerful bridge between grassroots experiences and international policy-making, embodying the Latin meaning of its name: “may he/she/it live.”
The Power of Collaborative Advocacy
VIVAT was founded 25 years ago with the bold vision of uniting religious congregations in a global network dedicated to human dignity and justice. Today, the network comprises 12 Catholic religious congregations working across 121 countries, transforming their collective voice into a powerful instrument for change in key areas like human rights, environmental justice, poverty elimination, and migrant support.
Sr. Miriam Altenhofen SSpS, President of VIVAT International, reflected on this global mission, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration. Drawing from personal experiences in places like Papua New Guinea, she highlighted VIVAT’s commitment to justice, peace, and care for creation. She stressed, “When we join hands, we can speak louder, act more boldly, and bring greater hope,” underscoring the importance of listening to the voices of the marginalized and acting with compassion and courage.
Sr. Pat Murray IBVM, who welcomed participants on behalf of UISG and USG, provided historical context, celebrating VIVAT’s journey and its dedication to transformative advocacy. She reflected on the different dimensions of peace—from the absence of violence to breaking down barriers and creating a fullness of life for all. Her words, along with the reflective speech delivered by Fr. Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro SVD that traced VIVAT’s history and growth, set the stage for a celebration of unity and shared mission.
Global Impact and Spiritual Mission
The celebration featured leaders who underscored the critical role of faith-based advocacy on the international stage.
Mons. Daniel Pacho explored the Holy See’s role in multilateral diplomacy, outlining four key areas of church involvement: human rights, peace, solidarity, and religious freedom. He emphasized the importance of a prophetic voice that inspires change by focusing on human dignity, truth, justice, and peace.
Ambassador Chris Trott provided a diplomatic perspective, offering insights into the vital role of faith-based organizations in addressing global challenges like climate change and conflict. Drawing on his experience, particularly in peace processes in Sudan, he stressed the need for a rules-based multilateral system and the necessity of engaging faith actors in finding global solutions.
This commitment to change is rooted in VIVAT’s spiritual foundation. Bishop Paul Daisuke Narui SVD (from Japan), a former VIVAT International Executive Secretary, emphasized that VIVAT members are missionaries who accompany vulnerable people out of love, not just duty. He described VIVAT as a “tool to protect and love people and the environment” that works at both grassroots and international levels.
Voices from the Front Lines
Powerful witness testimonies illustrated VIVAT’s profound impact on individuals and communities:
- Sr. Comfort Arthur CSC (from Ghana) described being part of VIVAT as a “tremendous blessing” that opened her eyes and heart to the global dimensions of the Gospel mission. She expressed gratitude for being empowered to speak for the voiceless and for the network’s shared mission.
- Fr. Fabian Onyekachi Adindu CSSp (from Geneva) offered a blessing, praying for VIVAT to continue being a voice for the voiceless, a light in places of darkness, and a bridge across cultures and communities, asking for the organization to be empowered with courage, compassion, and wisdom.
Looking Forward with Creativity
VIVAT International remains committed to its transformative mission: to be a voice for the voiceless, a bridge across cultures, and a catalyst for action. The celebration concluded with Fr. Luis Ignacio Rois Alonso OMI giving the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for VIVAT’s journey. He quoted the founder’s wisdom, reminding all that “To face the new needs of the poor, charity is always creative.”
The next 25 years promise continued innovation, collaboration, and hope. By connecting local experiences with global platforms, VIVAT International stands as a beacon of hope, proving that collective action can build a more just and compassionate world.
Acknowledgments
This momentous 25th-anniversary celebration would not have been possible without the dedication of key individuals:
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Fr. Alain Mayama CSSp, VIVAT International Vice President, who masterfully guided the event. His wisdom, compassion, and deep commitment to VIVAT’s mission ensured that every moment celebrated the transformative journey of the past 25 years.
We also extend deep appreciation to Sr. Gretta Fernandes SSpS, VIVAT International Executive Secretary, and Fr. Roy Thomas SVD, Co-Executive Director of JPIC Commission UISG-USG, for their meticulous organization and coordination. They flawlessly managed every detail, from speaker invitations to venue preparation and providing seamless multilingual translations for in-person and online participants, truly embodying the spirit of collaborative excellence.
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