The Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Leads Conservation Efforts in Indonesia’s Flores Island
As the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) commemorates its 150th anniversary, a group of dedicated religious priests and nuns are taking the lead in conservation efforts on Indonesia’s Flores island, reaffirming their commitment to caring for creation.
By Fr. Kasmir Nema, SVD
With escalating ecological challenges facing the region, missionaries of the SVD, in partnership with 30 religious congregations, are rallying local communities in extensive environmental restoration projects in Flores, Indonesia.
Religious Congregations Spearhead Ecological Mission
In honor of this historic milestone, the SVD launched a large-scale tree-planting initiative in 2025, bringing together religious congregations, priests, and nuns in Manggarai Barat, Flores, to combat deforestation and land degradation.
Their collaborative efforts highlight the Church’s role in ecological stewardship, in line with the teachings of Pope Francis’ Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’.
The ecological movement championed by the SVD, dedicated to upholding the integrity of creation, has gained significant momentum. Two major tree-planting events have already taken place this year, drawing enthusiastic participation from religious communities, local believers, and environmental advocates.
On January 18, 2025, around 400 participants, including priests, religious brothers and sisters, and laypeople, gathered in Cunca Lolos and Tondong Belang villages to plant trees in areas affected by deforestation.
The initiative continued on February 1, 2025, in South Lembor District, where trees were planted around five crucial water sources to safeguard clean water access and prevent soil erosion.
“This initiative goes beyond just planting trees; it is about restoring God’s creation,” said Father Marsel Agot, SVD. “As religious individuals, we are called to be stewards of our environment, ensuring that future generations inherit a world that reflects the beauty of God’s design.”
Ecological Challenges and Church Advocacy
The involvement of religious congregations in environmental advocacy comes as a response to alarming ecological threats in Flores, Indonesia. Deforestation, industrial activities, and unregulated land use continue to disrupt the region’s fragile ecosystem.
Geothermal energy projects and extractive industries, particularly in Wae Sano, West Manggarai, have raised concerns among indigenous communities and religious organizations regarding water pollution, the desecration of sacred sites, and the displacement of local residents.
Moreover, infrastructure developments have exacerbated soil erosion, habitat loss, and the depletion of endemic species.
“These projects often claim to promote progress, but they leave behind a trail of environmental destruction,” emphasized Father Agot. “As religious figures, we must take a stand before it’s too late.”
In response, the SVD, in collaboration with religious congregations, has intensified conservation efforts, advocating for sustainable development practices that protect nature while ensuring the well-being of local communities.
Protecting the Sacred ‘Munting’ Tree
One of the SVD’s primary conservation priorities is the preservation of the Kayu Munting, an endemic tree species in Manggarai Barat with significant cultural and ecological value. Traditionally used in the construction of traditional houses and sacred structures, the Munting tree has become increasingly scarce due to deforestation.
“Munting is not just a tree; it is a symbol of our heritage,” explained Father Agot. “According to Manggarai tradition, one must seek permission from the spirits before cutting down a Munting tree, as it is believed to safeguard the land and its people. Its survival is crucial for both our cultural and environmental legacy.”
By replenishing Munting tree populations, the SVD and religious congregations aim to protect biodiversity while preserving indigenous ecological knowledge.
Faith and Ecology: A Shared Responsibility
Beyond tree-planting efforts, the SVD, along with the Forum Komunikasi Kongregasi Religius (FKKR) – a network of religious congregations in Manggarai Barat – is spearheading initiatives to deepen faith-based ecological responsibility.
During a Christmas gathering on January 11, 2025, religious leaders reaffirmed their joint commitment to safeguarding creation, blending traditional ecological wisdom with the principles of Laudato Si’.
“Faith compels us to be custodians of our common home,” stated Father Agot. “Our spirituality and our environmental stewardship are interconnected. As religious figures, we must lead by example and inspire change.”
A Future Rooted in Faith and Sustainability
Through their conservation endeavors, the SVD and religious congregations embody the Church’s dedication to environmental justice – not only by planting trees but also by challenging harmful practices, advocating for eco-friendly policies centered on people, and rejuvenating indigenous ecological wisdom for sustainable living.
Amidst mounting environmental threats in Flores, the SVD’s movement, alongside religious congregations, shines as a beacon of hope, showcasing the inseparable connection between faith, ecological responsibility, and the mission to safeguard God’s creation for future generations.
