Tagaytay City—In a solemn and heartfelt ceremony held at the SVD Holy Spirit Chapel and Aula Magna last July 31, 2023, the Divine Word Institute of Mission Studies (DWIMS) celebrated the symbolic passing of the directorship torch from its esteemed founder and first Director, Rev. Fr. Edgar G. Javier, SVD, to the succeeding new Director Rev. Fr. Samuel “Sam” Naceno-Agcaracar, SVD.
The ceremony commenced with a reverent Holy Mass at the Holy Spirit Chapel at 5:00 PM, presided over by Rev. Fr. Jerome Marquez, SVD, President of the SVD Board of Trustees and Provincial Superior of the SVD Philippine Central Province.
In his homily, Fr. Jerome reflected on the journey of DWIMS, the institute’s purpose, and its pivotal role in shaping the mission of the Church. He lauded how DWIMS founder and first director Fr. Edgar “braved (the) challenges” of guiding the institute in its foundational years and how he and his “co-dreamers … brought these ideas into concrete reality.” He also encouraged the DWIMS community to offer their prayers and continuous support for Fr. Sam as he takes on this new responsibility as the incoming director of the institute.
After Fr. Jerome’s homily, the official appointment letter was read by Rev. Fr. Michael “Mike” G. Layugan, SVD, Vice Provincial Superior of the SVD Philippine Central Province and, at the time of this publication, President and Director of the Divine Word School of Theology (DWST).
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After the Holy Mass, a program was held at the Aula Magna at 6:30 PM. The program was hosted by Mr. Rem Arganda, a distinguished alumnus of DWIMS.
The program formally began with the invocation prayer which was delivered by Ms. Socorro Moralina, President of the DWIMS Alumni Association.
The Reading of the Letter of Appointment was conducted by Fr. Jerome, officially bestowing the role of DWIMS Director upon Fr. Sam.
Afterwards, the attendees were regaled with a concise but insightful account of the history of DWIMS, narrated by none other than Fr. Edgar himself. Afterwards, a video presentation highlighted the remarkable evolution and contributions of DWIMS through the years.
As a poignant mark of closure, Fr. Edgar delivered his valedictory address as the outgoing director of DWIMS, reflecting on the achievements, challenges, and the missiological spirit that fueled the institute under his tenure.
After Fr. Edgar’s message, the symbolic turn-over of responsibility for DWIMS was formalized during the act of his passing of the director's medallion to his successor, Fr. Sam, signifying the embrace of a new era while honoring the legacy that paved the way.
Prof. Arnold Modera, PhD, SThD, delivered a moving Laudatio and raised a heartfelt toast to Fr. Edgar, acknowledging his visionary leadership and dedication that have steered DWIMS to its current esteemed state.
Finally, Fr. Sam delivered his inaugural address, filled with gratitude and anticipation for the journey ahead. In his message, he emphasized how his directorship would both respect what has come before and face the future with the spirit of innovation.
In another touching Laudatio and toast, Rev. Fr. Severo Biton, Jr., SVD, STL, Vice Rector of Divine Word Seminary Tagaytay (DWST) and Director of the SVD Postulancy, expressed the collective sentiment of the community, celebrating Fr. Edgar's impact and legacy.
After the Song of Blessing, Rev. Fr. Atilano Corcuera, SVD, delivered the final blessing for the event. As the evening concluded, attendees departed with a sense of inspiration and excitement, eager to witness the new chapter that Fr. Sam's leadership would bring to DWIMS.