October 2025 Issue

From the Provincial, Fr. Raymond Cook, OMI

Dear Friends in Christ,

I welcome you to the October 2025 issue of the Oblate World Magazine. Your prayers and support continue to fuel our mission as Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate guiding us to serve those on the margins, where Christ’s love meets the world’s deepest needs.

In this issue, the Oblates rejoice in the presbyterial ordination of Father Mateusz Garstecki, OMI on September 13, 2025 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in San Antonio. His journey—from his family’s formation in Chicago and San Antonio to theological studies in Rome—embodies our missionary charism and the spiritual fruits of your faithful investment in our seminarians. His first Mass at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes was long awaited by his family, friends and the Oblates. Now, he can minister as a priest to the people of God through his obediences.

At Oblate School of Theology, seminarians engage in Theological Field Education—a demanding, spirit-shaping program that prepares them for pastoral realities in ministry. As one student aptly put it, this is where “the rubber meets the road.” In serving the poor, teaching the faith and offering pastoral care, these future priests and brothers are being molded into compassionate leaders rooted in theology and lived ministerial experiences.

The Oblate mission in Cuba continues to shine as a beacon of faith and courage. In a context where the Church’s presence is constrained, our Oblates remain close to the people, offering daily acts of hope and accompaniment. The Oblates are especially thankful for the recent visit of Fr. Jorge Albergati, OMI, General Counselor for Latin America, whose presence brought reflection, strength, and renewal to the Oblates and lay associates in Cuba.

On the homefront, the flame of mission burns just as brightly. The 2025 Convocation in Scottsdale, Arizona welcomed over 100 Oblates to a week of fraternal reflection and recommitment. As Missionaries of Hope, we gathered in prayer, fellowship, and theological dialogue to deepen our connection to the charism of St. Eugene de Mazenod in today’s time.

Within these pages, you’ll also find stories of quiet innovation and enduring grace—like the outreach of young adult ministries, the scholarship of lay theologians such as Dr. Scott Woodward, and the simple power of compassionate service. From Houston to Zambia, Cuba to Turkmenistan, the message is clear: God continues to call; the Missionary Oblates continue to answer. And you continue to walk with us.

As you read, I invite you into a sacred pause—into prayer, reflection, and renewed partnership. May these stories nourish your soul and reaffirm our shared mission: to bring light where darkness lingers, and love where the world aches for healing.

Thank you for being a vital part of our Oblate family. Your generosity, your prayers, and your love make this mission possible.