In gratitude for Oblate Brothers

Some Oblates experience the call to the religious life, to a life of service and community, but not to the priesthood. Though small in number in our congregation, Oblate brothers witness to something fundamental about our vocation. The 33rd General Chapter Document (1998) reminds us of this; “…the vocation of the brother recalls us to our consecration as religious… through a life of apostolic activity, he evokes the primacy of mission. Through a life of professional activity, he is clearly involved in the world.” The Oblate brother does not play a ‘supporting role’ to that of the Oblate priest, but plays an equal part in our missionary project. The 2015 Vatican document, ‘Identity and Mission of the Religious Brother in the Church’, supports this: “…the brother becomes a bridge between God and his brothers, anointed and sent by the Spirit to bring the good news and mercy of God to all, especially to the least of his brothers [and sisters], the weakest members of humanity”. Like you, I see these words reflected in the lives of the many brothers I know; brothers like Tom Cavanaugh and Walter De Mong, both of whom celebrate their anniversary of profession today. Each of these men have touched the lives of the people they served, and those with whom they worked in profound ways through often quiet service. Oblate brothers have done and continue to do incredible work around the world. Whether as prison or hospital chaplains, as ranchers, teachers, carpenters or plumbers, as musicians, doctors or justice workers, Oblate brothers show me how live a little ‘closer to the people’. In the same document referenced earlier, there is a lovely line; “…rooting his life deeply in God, the Brother consecrates all creation, recognizing the presence of God and the Spirit’s action in creation, in cultures and in daily events…”. As we celebrate the Feast of St Joseph, I give thanks for the presence of the Oblate brothers in my life, and pray God continues to bless the Congregation with young men eager to serve to the mission through this unique and necessary vocation.

By Ken Thorson, OMI