“Confronted with the great needs of our emigrants…” – Polish Missionaries Oblates of Mary Immaculate in the perspective of the General Chapter 1926

Abstract

Since the end of the 19^th century Polish Oblates of Mary Immaculate have been involved in pastoral work in Polish emigrant communities in Canada and in West Europe. The Polish Province of the Congregation was established by priests who knew well about the needs and about the significance of this kind of service. In 1926 Polish Oblates were able to take part in the event that was most important for the Order, one with an international import – the General Chapter in Rome. From this perspective, on the basis of sources and Chapter documents, the article describes progress made in the development of Oblate structures in Poland that were established mostly with the thought of securing missionaries for Polish emigrants. In the years that followed the climax of 1926 these aspirations were slowly realized, laying the foundations of permanent involvement of Polish Oblates in the work in West Europe.