Video: United in Mission: The Evolution and Impact of the Congregation’s Joint Sessions
July 10th, 2024
(Republished from OMIUSA.ORG)
The Central Government members are visiting the Oblates and charismatic family members in the Canada–United States Region in preparation for the Joint Session in Washington DC from July 7th to 13th. Have you ever wondered about the history of these sessions and their impact on the congregation?
The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) have a rich history of evangelization and closeness to the poor. The Joint Sessions are critical to this mission, providing a platform for collaboration, reflection, and strategic planning.
St. Eugene de Mazenod, our founder, emphasized unity, collective discernment, and mutual support among Oblates to effectively serve the poor and the Church. This laid the foundation for Joint Sessions. Initially, these were informal gatherings to discuss issues, share experiences, and find solutions.
As the importance of these meetings grew, they became formalized. By the mid-20th century, Joint Sessions were regular events on the Congregation’s calendar, reflecting a commitment to ongoing formation, collaboration, and spiritual growth to enhance the Congregation’s mission worldwide.
The main goal of the Joint Sessions is to foster unity and collaboration among regional members and the central government. These sessions encourage open communication, building trust, and mutual support. They also provide a forum to discuss and address challenges the Congregation faces in specific regions.
Joint Sessions include plenary sessions, workshops, group discussions, and spiritual reflections. This comprehensive approach addresses both practical and spiritual aspects of missionary work, reinforcing the Congregation’s identity and mission to evangelize the poor and marginalized.
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Related keywords: 2024 OMI Joint Session, Missionary Oblates Jpint Session, missionary oblates of mary immaculate, Oblates US Canada, OMI United in Mission, St. Eugene De Mazenod
