OMIWORLD
Fr. Antoni BOCHM, OMI, the Vicar General, embarked on a visit to the Oblate missions in Bangladesh. This visit is particularly special as the Oblate Delegation of Bangladesh recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.
While in Bangladesh, Fr. Antoni took the opportunity to preach an inspiring retreat for the Oblates. The retreat, held at the Delegation House in Dhaka from October 17-20, focused on the importance of living out the charism as outlined in the Constitutions and Rules of the Congregation. Fr. Antoni also addressed the theme of the last General Chapter, “Pilgrims of Hope in Communion.”
Fr. Antoni also took the time to meet the seminarians who are currently studying at the Oblate minor seminary. With encouragement and guidance, he inspired these young individuals to nurture their faith on a daily basis and to embrace the Oblate missionary vocation.
Undoubtedly, the most memorable aspect of his visit was the time spent with the poorest of the poor and the Oblate facilities that strive to serve them. Fr. Antoni visited various communities, including Khadim, Borelekha, Lokhipur, and Lokhonpur.
The Oblate missionaries primarily serve in rural areas among those who are socially marginalized and impoverished. To help support the younger generation, the Oblates and other religious communities have undertaken the responsibility of operating schools in numerous locations.
To commemorate his visit, the Vicar General brought the relics of St. Eugene de Mazenod to Bangladesh. These relics will find a home in four religious houses within the Oblate Delegation, as a constant reminder of the Charism that unites the Mazenodian Family.
(pg/photos: oblaci.pl/)
