News Archives » Br Lester Antonio Zapata OMI
National Gathering of Oblate Associates in Belleville, IL August 10th, 2026
From July 31 to August 2, a 3-day National Gathering of Oblate Associates happened at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, IL.
The event was to mark the 200th anniversary of Oblate Constitutions and Rules. Among the attendees was. U.S. Provincial Fr. Raymond Cook, OMI, who inaugurated the Congress.
Oblate Lay Associates are men and women who recognize a Spirit-initiated call to live their baptism enriched by the charism of St. Eugene de Mazenod. They volunteer their time to support the mission of the Church through the Oblates.
Photo 1 – Oblates from Florida -The Oblates are no longer in Florida
Photo 2 – (L to R) Mary O’Herron, former OMI JPIC staff & Honorary Oblate of Mary Immaculate and Br. Lester Antonio Zapata, OMI
Photo 3 – Lay Associates attending the gathering
