Brother Musonda Chota, OMI Professes Perpetual Vows as a Missionary Oblate

Sept 6, 2025 – In the quiet beauty of the Immaculate Conception Memorial Chapel beneath its vaulted ceiling and the gentle glow of morning light, the Oblate family gathered to witness another moment with ur zambia brother. Brother Musonda Chota OMI professed his perpetual vows for life as a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate.

Presided by the Fr. Raymond Cook, OMI, U.S. Provincial, the Mass was both solemn and joy filled echoing the spirit of Mary’s own fiat. Brother Chota stood before the altar and with deep humility and conviction professed the four sacred vows that shape Oblate life: obedience, chastity, poverty, and perseverance. These are not mere words; these are a daily offering a surrender of self in service to Christ and to those most in need as an Oblate.

Father Cook’s homily reflected on the courage and humility needed to say yes to a life of service. He described the oblation not merely as a vow but as a perpetual offering, a rhythm of love, presence and hope that continues long after the liturgy ends.

Brother Chota’s journey has spanned continents, cultures, and communities. From his roots in Zambia to his ministry in the United States, he has carried the Oblate charism with gentleness and strength, always attentive to the sacred dignity of those he serves. His final profession is not an end to his former life, but a beginning a deeper immersion into the mission entrusted to us by Christ through the charism of St. Eugene de Mazenod, founder.

The chapel welcomed Missionary Oblates, family members, and friends of the Oblate School of Theology community who came to witness this sacred moment. After Brother Chota professed his vows, he received the Oblate cross, a sign of his perpetual vows as a missionary, that once was carried by Father David Kalert, OMI, the first provincial of the U.S. Province and vice president of Oblate School of Theology. Fr. Kalert passed away in March 2024. Brother Chota will carry that same Oblate cross to Zambia where it has been before in ministry years before.

May Brother Musonda Chota’s life and ministry continue to be a living witness to the Gospel and may his oblation inspire many to respond to the call of Christ.

Written by Roger Brooks, MAMI Marketing

Photos by Roger Brooks, MAMI Marketing