Tagaytay City—The Divine Word Institute of Mission Studies (DWIMS) hosted the much-anticipated book launch event for "The Islands of Faith: Crossroads of Mission," authored by the esteemed Fr. Andrew G. Recepcion, a professor from the renowned Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy.
The book launch, held last February 23, 2024 at the DWST Aula Magna, commenced at 2:00 PM. The event took on added significance as the book had recently received the prestigious accolade of being recognized as the "Best Book in Theology and Spirituality" during the 41st National Book Awards.
The event, moderated by Fr. Antonio Pernia, SVD, Dean of Studies of DWIMS, began with the opening prayer led by DWIMS students.
Afterwards, a warm and insightful welcome address was delivered by Fr.. Samuel N. Agcaracar, SVD, the Director of DWIMS and the rector of the SVD Tagaytay Community. Fr. Sam’s message set the tone for an evening dedicated to intellectual enrichment.
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After Fr. Sam’s message, Prof. Kristian S. Cordero, Director of the Ateneo de Naga University Press, took the stage to present the book, its publisher, and its author.
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Afterwards, Fr. Andrew’s spiritually enlightening missiological reflection delved into the theme "Mission Makes the Church: New Horizons of Missio ad Gentes for the Philippines: Today and Beyond," drawing inspiration from the final chapter of his book.
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The highlight of the event was the formal launching of the book with Fr. Andrew, Fr. Sam, and Prof. Kristian, accompanied by Ms. Suzette Nellas, the former secretary of DWIMS.
The launch was followed by the open forum, moderated by Fr. Antonio, allowing the audience to engage in a meaningful dialogue with the luminaries present, enriching the intellectual discourse.
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After the open forum, closing remarks were offered by Fr. Sam, standing in for Fr. Edgar Javier, SVD. In his message, Fr. Sam expressed gratitude and underscoring the significance of the momentous occasion.
After Fr. Sam’s message, with heartfelt appreciation, Fr. Andrew presented the first-ever printed copy of the book to Fr. Sam as a symbolic token of gratitude, bringing the evening to a poignant conclusion.
The event not only celebrated the publication of a groundbreaking work but also fostered an atmosphere of scholarly camaraderie and enlightenment, marking a significant milestone in the history of DWIMS.
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Copies of the book are available at the William R. Burrows Library of DWIMS.