Oblate Associates Support Asian Center

The Lowell (MA) Oblate Associate Community was one of the sponsors of the St. Julie Asian Center auction that was held April 29 and raised over $14,000.  The Asian Center is housed in a Southeast Asian neighborhood of recently closed Oblate parish Notre Dame de Lourdes.  The Center began with the help of associate Tom Coughlan of the finance committee and pastor, Fr. Norman Parent who is the Associates’ advisor. Associates and Oblate Lay Missionaries have volunteered over the years at the Asian Center teaching English and citizenship skills as well as providing childcare so that moms could study.  Since the closing of NDL, the Asian Center has been at risk of closing.  The auction was a big help to keep this mission going. 

Cambodian Deacon An Ross, who serves at the Asian Center, is also on staff with the Oblates at St. Patrick’s. Oblates serving there are Fathers Jim Taggart, Chava Gonzalez and Jim Dukowski.

At the Asian Center’s recent Cambodian New Year celebration, Deacon Ross and some students gave the blessing and, as is the custom, everyone went around with baby powder to bless one another on the cheek.  White clouds of powder, delicious Asian food, grateful friendships were shared.

Courtesy of Carmela Coughlan