OUR CHARISMATIC FAMILY
“Around each religious family… there is a larger family, a ‘charismatic family’, which includes a number of Institutes which identify with the same charism, and especially lay faithful who feel called, precisely as lay persons, to share in the same charismatic reality.”
We, as Oblates and Oblate Lay Associates, remain in many ways on an "Emmaus walk," journeying like the disciples of Jesus “with our hearts burning with new vision, new hope, and new energy”.
The Roots of Collaboration
Before Saint Eugene de Mazenod gathered the first Missionaries of Provence on January 25, 1816, he actively collaborated with laypeople in his ministry to prisoners, his work with the youth, and various charitable endeavors. From the very inception of his ministry, Saint Eugene maintained a profound closeness to the poor and to the laity who shared in his apostolic works. He held a deep respect for the diverse gifts they brought to the mission, viewing them as essential co-operators. This spirit of collaboration has flourished into many rich expressions over the past two centuries.
A Growing Presence in Colombo
Within the Colombo Province of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, several lay groups now actively collaborate with the Oblates. While lay involvement has existed for many years, its vital importance was recently highlighted during the first Lay Associate Congress, held on May 12, 2025, at De Mazenod House (the Provincialate) in Colombo. This landmark event brought together 38 representatives from 13 distinct groups, marking a new chapter of shared mission.
A Unique Sri Lankan Identity
A distinctive feature of our Province—especially when compared to those in the Northern Hemisphere—is the presence of associates who are not Catholic, and in some instances, not Christian. These individuals are drawn to and participate in our missionary work, embodying the Oblate charism in a way that reflects the diverse religious landscape of Sri Lanka.
This unique reality invites further reflection on how the Oblate charism is lived across different faiths, affirming our belief that the Kingdom of God extends beyond the visible boundaries of the Church.
