From the Altar to the Air Base: Fr. Robert Morin, OMI

Father Warren Morin’s life has been shaped by deep faith, unwavering service, and a passion for healing. From his formative years surrounded by the Oblate community in Lowell, Massachusetts, to his time as a military chaplain during the Cold War, his path has been one of dedication, resilience, and profound ministry.

A Calling from the Beginning

Growing up in a Missionary Oblate-rich environment, Fr. Morin’s vocation took root early. His sister encouraged him to explore his calling, and his connection with parish priests solidified his path. As an altar server and Boy Scouts chaplain, he was drawn to the beauty of liturgy and the transformative power of service—an influence strengthened by his father’s medical challenges.

Faith in the Face of Military Tension

In 1976, Fr. Morin joined the Air Force Reserve and began his chaplaincy at Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire. Ministering to service members during the height of nuclear preparedness, he provided spiritual guidance amid the uncertainty of military life. He supported families facing long separations and soldiers grappling with the weight of their missions.

“We never knew if this was real or just an exercise until the planes came back,” he recalled, describing the tension of Cold War drills.

Through it all, Fr. Morin set aside his own anxieties to uplift those who needed him most.

Beyond the Military: A Mission of Preaching and Retreats

After resigning his commission to care for his aging mother, Fr. Morin transitioned into a nationwide preaching and retreat ministry. His military experience instilled in him a reflective approach to pastoral care—helping him evaluate his own ministry with a focus on growth and impact.

Serving in retreat houses across the country and preaching in 39 states, he remains grateful for the opportunities to share the message of faith, healing, and service with individuals and communities alike.

A Legacy of Compassionate Ministry

Father Morin’s journey—from a childhood shaped by Missionary Oblates to guiding service members through their struggles—reflects a life dedicated to lifting others through faith. His story stands as a testament to resilience, vocation, and the power of compassionate ministry.