The present campus programs of Divine Word College of Calapan have sprung from humble beginnings in 1946. Gradually, the Mindoro Junior College became Mindoro College and now Divine Word College of Calapan. In various ways over the years, the administrator, faculty, administrative employees and students have worked together to create a climate for academic excellence, research and community service, imbuing each with a Christian spirit and dimension.

The fostering of the Catholic tradition and values is a responsibility which is not to be left to one person or several persons in an institution as large as the Divine Word College of Calapan. In the past, it could be simplistically stated that the theology instructors were to teach faith, while the College chaplain was to lead in the liturgical celebration of the sacraments on campus. This perception is now outdated and in need of revision.

Theological study continues to be the means by which a student develops a linguistic fluency in his/her catholic faith. The teaching of theology can continue to be the means of keeping alive the great questions of meaning, purpose and identity, thereby providing a coherent vision of life as well as a framework by which to evaluate life. In a well-rounded Christian education, the teachings of the Church are presented with a fidelity to the magisterium and with the contemporary situation in mind. 

One of the important ways the Church exercises her mission in an educational setting is through Campus Ministry. Our own history in Divine Word College of Calapan reflects the evolving of our understanding of Campus Ministry. From 1948-1990, the College Chaplain was established focusing on the ministry and service of one person. From 1987-1990, we have had the office of Campus Ministry, and this school year 1991-1992, we envision moving towards a team ministry under a Director of Campus Ministry.

At present time, there is a need to evolve further our approach to Campus Ministry. Many of us on campus may have a model of ministry in our minds which separates priest from laity, or which separates those who provide religious services from those who receive, often possibly, these services. Such a model of ministry usually fails to create a vibrant community of CARING, COMMITTED and DEDICATED persons.

The insight that is before us today is that all members of the Church on campus are called, according to their own gifts to share in ministry; true, the entire campus will still be guided by professional campus minister, but the gifts of all are to be called forth, to be put at the service of the entire campus community. The emerging leaders of Church and society, namely our students, are to be exposed to the best of our Catholic Tradition and to encounter dedicated persons who will share their journey of faith with them. The time right to challenge faculty members, administrators, support staff and students to contribute their time and gifts to the common effort of helping the Divine Word College of Calapan achieve its goal and build up the Church on campus.