Meeting People: A Blessing Along the Way
As I look back over the years, I realize that my work as coordinator of lay associates and associations has given me an incredible gift: the opportunity to meet extraordinary people. Every encounter is a blessing, a reflection of our shared mission and charism.
A Journey Across Continents
In August, I had the privilege of attending the De Mazenod Family Gathering in the Province of Australia. Even though I was literally on the other side of the world, I felt as if I were home, embraced by a warmth that transcends borders. During the assembly, I shared about my work and introduced the Lay Coordinating Team with whom I serve. Yet, the greatest gift was listening to and learning from laypeople who live the charism in a setting so different from my own. At the gathering, we also presented the Lay Associations Guidelines and formation booklet, essential resources for understanding the global reality of lay Oblates.
In October, I spent my first day of retirement traveling to Hünfeld, Germany, to attend the assembly of lay associates in the Central European Province. Laypeople from Germany and the Czech Republic gathered alongside Oblates and representatives of Las Oblatas. It was a weekend filled with prayer, workshops, and an unforgettable Eucharistic celebration. During the Mass, four new associates joined the mission after completing their formation. Watching the current associates and concelebrating priests warmly embrace the new members was a moving testament to the family spirit that binds us as missionaries.
Exploring Charism and Building Communion
In late October, I visited Aix-en-Provence to take part in the “De Mazenod Experience,” a retreat designed to help Oblate priests reconnect with our founder’s vision and renew their dedication to evangelization. During my time there, I shared insights about the work of lay associates and learned from their mission experiences. I also joined an online assembly of the lay associates of the Holy Family of Bordeaux, where I reflected on the 2nd Congress of Oblate Lay Associations and the 37th General Chapter. These moments showed how deeply connected we are as a global community of faith, all working toward the same mission in our own unique ways.
Strengthening the Mission Together
In November, I took part in the European Commission for the Animation of the Laity (CELA) meeting, where Oblates and lay leaders came together to focus on formation, communion, and mission that reaches beyond borders. It was another chance to strengthen ties between congregational and regional efforts, promoting collaboration across the global Oblate family. I also attended the orientation session for Major Superiors at the General House in Rome. Meeting face-to-face with Oblates in leadership roles reinforced our shared commitment to working closely with the laity. With trust in God and in one another, we continue building the mission as one community.
Meeting people truly is a beautiful gift!
By Stefano Dominici
Published on the OMI World website
