Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate
The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) is a global congregation of Catholic priests and brothers. They are dedicated to bringing the Good News to the poor and most abandoned.
Founded on January 25, 1816, by St. Eugene de Mazenod in Aix-en-Provence, France, the community originally formed to rebuild a faith shattered by the French Revolution. Formally recognized by Pope Leo XII in 1826, the Oblates have spent over two centuries pushing boundaries to serve spiritually and materially marginalized communities globally.
Charism and Spirituality
Guided by their central motto, “He has sent me to evangelize the poor” (Luke 4:18), Oblates vow chastity, poverty, obedience, and perseverance. Living in apostolic communities, they derive their strength from the Eucharist, community prayer, and a profound devotion to Mary Immaculate, whom they look to as their mother and model of faith.
They traditionally greet one another with the salutation: “Laudetur Iesus Christus” (“Praised be Jesus Christ”), responding “Et Maria Immaculata” (“And Mary Immaculate”).
A Legacy of Mission in Canada
The Oblates arrived in Canada in 1841, establishing vital ministries spanning from remote northern indigenous territories to bustling urban centers. Across the country, they serve immigrants, ethnic minorities, and vulnerable populations through parish ministry, retreat work, education, and initiatives for social justice. Today, Canadian Oblates are organized into provinces—such as the Assumption Province—and continue to live out their charism with apostolic boldness.
Pastoral Ministry in the Diocese of Peterborough
In 2016, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate brought their unique missionary spirit to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough. Tasked with the care of souls in growing regions, the Oblate Fathers currently provide pastoral leadership at St. Therese Parish located in Courtice, Ontario.
At St. Therese, the Oblates sustain a lively and deeply sacramental parish family. Led by their pastor and associate pastor, they live out the core of the Oblate identity right here in Clarington:
- Sacramental & Devotional Life: Offering daily Masses, reconciliation, and structured times for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
- Community & Formation: Fostering faith development through youth ministry and liturgical programs that echo St. Eugene’s desire to form tight-knit, self-sustaining Christian communities.
- Pastoral Care: Accompanying families through life’s transitions, offering the Anointing of the Sick, and ensuring that no member of the community feels forgotten or spiritually abandoned.
Through their presence at St. Therese, the Oblates remain men of daring, creativity, and perseverance, bringing the healing and unconditional love of Jesus Christ to the local Church.