Dear friend,

Welcome to another wonderful year of Oblates magazine!

We’re kicking off the year with an issue dedicated to new beginnings. Although tragedy strikes throughout our world, Oblates find ways to rebuild and preserve hope.

Recently, in the Tekakwitha Indian Missions, one of our Oblate churches was the target of arson. The fire engulfed St. Peter’s and left our parishioners without an integral part of their community. But in the ashes and embers, hope springs eternal. In this issue, read about the aftermath of the destruction and the resilience of my Oblate brothers.

Resiliency is also the cornerstone of Oblate ministries in Sri Lanka. It has been a year since the tsunami which forever changed life on the small island…and the Oblates are still there! Looking back over this incredible year of strength, courage, and rebirth, read about the story of a young boy who found his voice again, thanks to the efforts of Fr. Damien Soosai, O.M.I.

Thank you for being our friend during 2005. Over the next year, we’ll be bringing you more stories of Oblate success, and we hope that you will join us for the journey.

In the Love of the Christ Child,
Father Tom Singer, O.M.I., Director