Choosing Religious Life

One of the majpr things that drew me to a religious life was the idea that I was joining with a common identity and focus - something bigger than myself. I am linked to hundred of Oblate ministries and communities around the work.
Fr. Ken Thorson OMI

One thing I noticed after joining the Oblates is that we celebrate well. There are have been many moments when we have realized as a community the things we should honour.
David MacPhee OMI

As I twisted and turned down an unfamilar road with a man I just met, I thought of my decision to join the Oblates two years ago brought me here to Northern Saskatchewan at Christmas time. I've always had the fear when being sent to a new place, or into a new ministry, or having to accept new things about myself. It is in overcoming fear that we risk and open up oureselves to the possibility of something new.

One of the difficulties I had in joining the Oblates was whether I should leave the security and familiarity of my home town. When one commits to the interior journey of following Christ, they may eventually be taken on an adventure with God to some other place both spiritually and geographically.

If you are considering the Oblates or some other order, you may have wondered to yourself, ‘do I have the qualities that make for a good brother or priest?'. These five ‘Jesus Values' are a helpful way of checking on how we are (and are not) responding to God's call to live in loving relationship with Him and with others.

My road to life as an Oblate priest was quite unspectacular. I never heard a voice, saw a vision, or had a dream that led me to the path I now happily tread . There was however one incident early on in my life that I count as significant in my journey. Read more about Ken's journey to priesthood.
Fr. Ken Thorson, OMI

The decision to join the Oblates was not an easy one. I was happy in Halifax. I was rich in good friends and comfort. But in further prayer and reflection, something told me that religious life, for me, would be more rewarding and suit me better than diocesan life. So what comes next? I knew that this path would take me in new directions, but I could never have predicted the blessings and growth that I have experienced since I set out on this journey.
David MacPhee OMI