On this anniversary of the death of Br. Anthony Kowalczyk, OMI, participants in the CROCUS Joint Session, were reminded of his exemplary religious life. His humble and dedicated zeal for service to others, particularly the youth, and his intense search for God were central themes. The Canada-US leadership strives to emulate this same devotion to mission and service to the poor as they discern the future path of Oblate missionaries.

Where do we want to go? How will we get there?

These two questions guided the day’s discussions, primarily in small groups. Three key priorities emerged repeatedly: fostering a life-giving community, living out the vows (CCRR), and caring for each other.

Fr. Charles Rensburg took to the podium to present the results of an extensive OMI demographic analysis. He discussed the financial implications of demographic changes within the Oblate Congregation over the next eight to ten years and how these shifts might influence decision-making as the Congregation moves forward in this synodal process toward renewal.

With all this information in mind, participants walked to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a few blocks away. There, they celebrated the Eucharist in the Oblate Chapel, with CROCUS President Fr. Ken Thorson presiding.