Oblates, HOMIs and Associates Celebrate Feast Day in Belleville

Belleville, IL

Posted on May 23, 2023

Fathers Juan Gaspar (L) and Mark Dean start things off with prayer

By Will Shaw

On Sunday, May 21st, Oblates from the Belleville area gathered to celebrate the Feast of St. Eugene de Mazenod at the Benedictine Living Community on the grounds of the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows. Also invited and attending the celebration were Honorary Oblates and Oblate Associates.

The evening began with a prayer service prepared by the Oblates in Rome, led by Fr. Juan Gaspar, OMI who was introduced by Fr. Mark Dean, OMI.

After prayer it was time to socialize and partake in a festive dinner arranged by USP Support Office Manager, Lori Kelly.

After prayer Fr. Dean chats with Lori Kelly
Ready for dinner are the Honorary Oblates: (L-R) Betty Rule, Gwen Stauder, Sandy Weck, and Fr. Allen Maes, OMI
Oblate Associate, Mary Mertzlufft makes her point to Fr. Tom Hayes
(L-R) Oblates, Bro. Tom Ruhmann, Fr. Jim Fee and Fr. Jim Allen enjoying time together
Fr. Mike Powell (back to camera) with Associates. The three Associates facing the camera are: (L-R) Rose Mary Steuer, Nicole Younge and Mildred Boykins-Cox.
The buffet is open and what do you know? The Oblates got there first! (L-R) Fathers Norm Volk, Elvis Mwamba, Joe Hitpas, Dale Schlitt, Mike Powell.

Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate

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