The meeting of the Council of the Congregation went very well. It took place between the 25^th and 30^th of June, 2017, at Pinerolo, Italy. The 17 confreres who participated at the meeting were majorly the provincials and delegates from America, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, France, Italy and Nigeria. Different entities presented their realities, projects, challenges, aspirations and hopes.  The atmosphere was that of brotherly encounter, dialogue and mutual sharing. Great proposals emerged and the attention of the Council Fathers was once again drawn to the vision and mission of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary.

The Rector Major, Rev. Fr. Dave Nicgorski, also invited Fr. Tom Canon, an American Oblate expert on strategic planning to be part of the council meeting. Fr. Canon gave a lot of insights on how to formulate and execute pastoral plans effectively. Other moments were: celebrating the Holy Mass together, sharing meals together, interacting with confreres during coffee break, happy hour, guided tour around the community patrimony,  taking a walk into the city, visiting the tomb of Fr. Lanteri, etc. The Bishop of the Diocese of Pinerolo, Mons. Pier Giorgio Debernardi, was at the concluding Mass and closing banquet on the last day of the meeting.

Fr. John IDIO