Tagaytay City—The Divine Word Institute of Mission Studies (DWIMS) recently concluded its 23rd Mission Camp from December 8 to 10, 2023, under the theme "For a Synodal Church." The camp brought together a diverse group of 61 students from DWIMS's doctorate and licentiate programs, as well as participants from the Certificate in Mission Studies (CMS) non-degree program.
The participants were divided into four groups, each representing one of the mission zones of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD): PANAM, EUROPE, AFRAM, and ASPAC.
The students of DWIMS were divided into each of these mission zones, with Ms. Lorna Burce leading the Europe group, Ms. Deborah Castilo leading the ASPAC group, Ms. Maria Paz leading the AFRAM group, and Ms. Annie Coleman leading the PANAM group.
EUROPE, consisting of 25 countries, includes Holland, the birthplace of the Society of the Divine Word. ASPAC, spanning 15 countries from China to New Zealand, is home to nearly 60 percent of the world's population. AFRAM, with 16 countries, is experiencing growth in membership and ministry amid a more favorable political climate for missionary work. PANAM, covering 24 countries in North and South America, boasts a history dating back to the time of St. Arnold Janssen, SVD, and the founding of the Society of the Divine Word itself.
The itinerary of the Mission Camp featured various activities aimed at fostering a sense of community, spiritual growth, and understanding of the synodal Church concept.
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The first day of the event, December 8, 2023, began with the arrival of participants and the preparation of the DWIMS Garden. Afterwards, the Advent Vespers for Licentiate Students and dinner for DWIMS attendees were conducted.
On December 9, 2023, the day began with Holy Mass and Morning Prayer presided over by DWIMS Vice Director for Studies Fr. Antonio M. Pernia, SVD.
The Europe Zone started their day with breakfast, leading to a parade from DWIMS to SVD Tagaytay Gymnasium.
The opening ceremony featured welcome remarks from DWIMS Director Fr. Samuel N. Agcaracar, SVD, and the introduction of participants. Fr. Antonio M. Pernia, SVD, delivered a talk on synodality, followed by cultural presentations from each zone. The day concluded with the Liturgy of the Fire and a Christmas Banquet.
The following day, December 10, 2023, saw a morning prayer and exercise, breakfast for PANAM, an Advent Recollection facilitated by DWIMS founder Fr. Edgar G. Javier, SVD, along with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The day and the event culminated in Holy Mass presided over by DWIMS Director Fr. Samuel N. Agcaracar, SVD, followed by lunch, sharing of insights, and an awarding ceremony.
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The Mission Camp provided a valuable platform for participants to deepen their understanding of synodality, engage in cultural exchanges, and strengthen their commitment to missionary work. DWIMS expressed enthusiasm for continuing its mission to prepare individuals for effective service in the global mission of the Church.