2026 Missionary Oblate Jubilee Story

The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate gathered this year in a spirit of gratitude and reverence as the United States Province celebrated the 2026 Jubilee of Oblate vows and ordinations. The celebrations took place in San Antonio on September 18, in Tewksbury on September 25, and in Belleville on October 1. Each gathering honored the men whose decades of religious life and priestly ministry have strengthened communities, shaped parishes, and carried forward the charism of Saint Eugene de Mazenod.

The liturgy opened with prayer and song, inviting the assembly to reflect on the presence of God in the lives of the Jubilarians. The blessing of water recalled the grace of Baptism, described in the booklet as “the wondrous work of our creation and the still greater work of our redemption.” This moment set the tone for a celebration rooted in renewal and remembrance.

Scripture readings offered guidance and encouragement. The passage from Deuteronomy reminded the community that God’s command is always near, “in your mouth and in your heart, to do it.” The reading from Colossians called the assembly to compassion, humility, gentleness, and patience, virtues that have shaped the lives of the men being honored. The Gospel from John affirmed the promise of the Spirit of truth, a promise that has guided Oblates throughout their years of ministry.

The most moving moment of each celebration came when the Jubilarians renewed their vows. Each jubilarian approached the Superior and professed again the promises first made many years ago.

The formula of Oblate profession includes the words, “I profess, promise to God and vow chastity, poverty and obedience for life….I also vow perseverance until death…” Those present listened with deep respect as these men reaffirmed their commitment to the “holy Institute and Society of the Missionary Oblates of the most Holy and Immaculate Virgin Mary.” (CCRR 62)

During Communion, the Jubilarians offered flowers during the Ave Maria, a gesture of devotion to Mary Immaculate. The Prayer after Communion asked that the men “advance happily on that journey which began in you and leads to you.” This prayer captured the essence of jubilee: a moment of gratitude for the past and hope for the future.

The celebrations also honored the memory of those jubilarians that have entered eternal life since last year. We remember Bro. Charles J. Gilbert, OMI (60 Years of Religious Life) and Fr. John Madigan, OMI (55 Years of Religious Life). Their legacies of Oblate life remind us of Saint Eugene de Mazenod’s words: “Inspire us always to leave nothing undone.” Their lives and ministries were remembered with affection and respect.

A special recognition was given to Oblates who continue to serve in foreign missions. Their dedication in Mexico, Haiti, Brazil, Japan, Canada, and Scandinavia offered a powerful witness to the global reach of Oblate ministry. Their names and years of service were included in the booklet, reminding the community of the ongoing missionary spirit that defines the Congregation.

Each celebration concluded with the Consecration to Mary Immaculate. The prayer recalled the trust of the first Missionary Oblates and reaffirmed the Province commitment to serve the poor, proclaim the Gospel, and remain always available for the work of God. The words, “We are your Oblates because God has favored us with his grace,” expressed the heart of Oblate identity and mission.

Testimony of Fr. Charles Bank, OMI

Father Charles Bank offered a reflection shaped by sixty years of priestly ministry. He described his journey through three movements of the heart: amazement, gratitude, and interior joy. Amazement arose from the unlikely path that led him from a small Illinois village to a global missionary congregation. He spoke of the countless people he has met, the many places he has served, and the countries he has visited while in leadership for the Oblates.

Gratitude followed, grounded in the privilege of living the Oblate spirituality centered on Jesus Christ the Savior, Mary the Mother of God, and the witness of Saint Eugene de Mazenod. Interior joy emerged from trusting the Lord through victories and defeats, light and darkness, and the daily challenges of life.

He concluded with appreciation for the companionship and support of the Oblate apostolic community, which has sustained him throughout his vocation.

Testimony of Fr. Arun William Rozario, OMI

Father Arun William Rozario celebrated thirty years as a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate and twenty four years as an Oblate priest. His testimony expressed deep gratitude to God, whose faithful love has guided him since professing his first vows on September 8, 1996, at the Sacred Heart Novitiate in Bandarawela, Sri Lanka.

He offered thanks for his family, whose love nurtured his vocation, and for his Oblate brothers, whose fraternity has strengthened him. He remembered with affection his parents and elder brother, now in eternal life, and prayed that they rejoice with the Lord as he marks this anniversary.

His missionary journey has taken him from Bangladesh to Sri Lanka, Italy, and now the United States. Today he serves as a formator at the Blessed Mario Borzaga Scholasticate, preparing future Oblates for the mission of proclaiming the Gospel. This ministry renews his own vocation and reminds him that discipleship is a lifelong journey of learning, serving, and growing in holiness.

Rooted in the love of Christ Crucified and inspired by Saint Eugene de Mazenod, he prays for the grace to continue serving with joy, humility, hope, and faithful dedication. He thanked all who have supported him and promised his continued prayers.

As the final hymn rose from the assembly, the community carried with them a renewed sense of gratitude for the Jubilarians and for the enduring strength of the Oblate mission. The 2026 Jubilee celebrations became a testament to lives lived with generosity, perseverance, and faith, and to the shared commitment that continues to guide the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate.