A Passionate Servant of the Missionary Oblates Spreading The Gospel

Father Raymond Cook, OMI serves as the U.S. Provincial of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. In this appointed role, his primary responsibility is to the Missionary Oblates as a whole, overseeing and supporting their mission across various ministries.

Born in Connecticut in 1968, Fr. Cook’s journey to the priesthood unfolded through a range of life experiences. He studied culinary arts, worked in theater as an actor and director, and spent 15 years as a technology instructor traveling across the country. These experiences eventually led to his calling to religious life and the Missionary Oblates.

“It was a slow process for me. It took years to decide on religious life. I never had a big conversion moment; it came gradually,” Fr. Cook shared about his faith journey.

His calling brought him to the Missionary Oblates’ prenovitiate program in Buffalo, New York where he earned a B.A. in Philosophy from D’Youville University. In 2007, he professed his First Vows as a Missionary Oblate in Belleville, Illinois. This marked a significant step in his commitment to the Oblate mission and religious formation.

He furthered his education by earning a Master of Divinity degree from the Oblate School of Theology, a Bachelor of Sacred Theology degree from St. Paul’s University in Ottawa, Canada, and a certificate in Spiritual Direction from the Mercy Center. Fr. Cook was ordained to the priesthood in 2012.

Leadership Rooted in the Missionary Oblates’ Purpose

In January 2023, Fr. Cook joined Oblate School of Theology faculty to teach homiletics. Later that year, he was appointed U.S. Provincial of the Missionary Oblates by Superior General Fr. Luis Ignacio Rois Alonso, OMI.

As Provincial, Fr. Cook’s appointed role reflects the Missionary Oblates’ commitment to perseverance and unity, ensuring the mission continues to flourish for generations to come. He oversees efforts that drive meaningful results while fostering community, mentoring future leaders, and guiding others in faith.

Support the Missionary Oblates

Fr. Raymond Cook, OMI serves as a testament to the dedication of the Missionary Oblates in bringing Christ’s love to all. Your support ensures this sacred mission continues, fostering faith, compassion, and community worldwide.

Join Us in Supporting Their Mission:

• Sustain programs that serve those in need.
• Support the formation of future leaders within the Missionary Oblates.
• Help create spaces of faith and belonging for all.

Together, we can ensure the Missionary Oblates’ mission remains strong and impactful for generations to come.