The first European Oblates Pilgrimage welcomed participants from 9 European countries for 3 days of prayer, sharing, and working together.
Thirty-six oblates, one apostolic sister, and seven brothers gathered during Ascension weekend 2025 at the priory Regina Pacis in Banneux N.D., Belgium. For the very first time in the history of the young European province, the oblates came together following an invitation from their provincial and the Regional Council of Oblates. The event took place during the Jubilee year for both the universal Church and the brothers of Saint John, who are celebrating their 50th anniversary.
Days of Formation and Reflection
Close to the Virgin of the Poor and thanks to the hospitality of the Belgian brothers and oblates, the participants were able to immerse themselves in 3 days of liturgical and silent prayer, along with moments of formation, exchange, and reflection together.
Although coming from different cultures and languages, the oblates quickly discovered a common element in their respective lives: the desire to follow Jesus in the footsteps of the beloved disciple. During Formation Day, they heard inspiring lectures on hope and solitude, given by Br. Ignaz-Maria and Sr. Marta Marija. For those interested in the arts, a Lithuanian oblate prepared a presentation on Saint John in Art.
Community Day led the oblates to reflect on the current situation of the Family of Saint John. By working in small groups, they discussed their struggles, their views on the renewal and reform, and they explored their personal possibilities for involvement in the life of the Family as a whole and especially in their particular fraternities. Members of the International Council of Oblates, who were also present, helped clarify the intentions behind the reform and answered participants’ questions.
Moments of Joy and Sacredness
A highlight of the gathering was the oblature of a new member of the Utrecht fraternity, Emma, at the end of Holy Mass on Saturday. The festive evening that followed brought this joyful moment to a close.
Visiting the Sanctuary, learning about the history of the apparitions of Mary to young Mariette, pushing hands into the water of the source, and praying during a candlelight procession were other elements of this pilgrimage. Many participants were touched by the gift that the contemplative sisters from Vilnius, although unable to attend themselves, had handcrafted for the oblates as a sign of the unity of the Family of Saint John.
Carrying Light Forward
After three rich days, the participants made their way back home: to Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom. They carried with them not only the final blessing for their fellow oblates, brothers, and sisters, but also new hope and inspiration for their respective fraternities.
Testimonials:
“Each nationality radiates a different light, so we could get a fuller picture for each one of us.” — Joanne
“Everyone, let us pray for the path of the oblates community. We, together with the Holy Spirit, form the future of oblates.” — Br. Mattheus
“I am thankful for this enriching time. I saw that it can work—in spite of all difficulties, of living far away, of the technical struggles…” — Udo
“I saw the suffering of every member, but at the same time, I received an image of a renewal chance, a new life. Like a small plant that sprouts from the ground and grows.” — Melanie
Written by the Regional Council of Oblates Europe
