The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate serve poor and abandoned people in the United States and 70 countries around the world.

Annual Multi-cultural Nativity Display Inspires at Shrine of St. Joseph

Shrine of St. Joseph the Worker

Posted on December 9, 2024

By Bro. Richard Cote, OMI

For many years the Oblate Historical Museum at the Shrine of St. Joseph the Worker in Lowell, MA has featured a Christmas time display of nativity scenes reflecting different cultures in which Oblates minister from around the world. The display is up for viewing now until now until the Baptism of the Lord.  Open Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 am 1:30 pm. Holiday Hours: Dec. 20, 23, 24 10:00 am 1:00 pm.

In addition to the seasonal nativity display, the museum contains information about the founding of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate in France by St. Eugene de Mazenod and their worldwide missionary work, as well as maps, pictures, and memorabilia.

Br. Richard Cote, OMI, Curator will be happy to give you a tour and to explain the missionary endeavors of the Oblates in countries such as the Philippines, Japan, Laos, South Africa etc. 

Oblate Brother Richard Cote holds a figurine of Baby Jesus belonging to one of the many Nativity scenes on display at St. Joseph the Worker Shrine in Lowell. Photo by Boston Pilot photo/Wes Cipolla
Among the nativities depicted under the “Legacy of Faith” painting (2nd to left) is a Log Cabin representative of the Mission to the Cree First Nations in memory of Fr. Albert Lacombe, O.M.I.  This year’s theme is “Follow the Star” (Mt. 2:9) to the Oblate Historical Museum to view the approximate 80 nativities in the collection.
Representing South Africa in memory of Archbishop Denis Hurley, O.M.I.
Representing Shrine of Our Lady of Grace, Colebrook, NH in memory of Fr. Louis S. Desruisseaux, O.M.I.

Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate

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