Almost 600 Oblates minister in this region which comprises 58% of the world's population. Ministries include seminary training, parishes, high schools and universities, prison and hospital chaplains, shrines, and radio and television apostolates. This immense region has a rich diversity of cultures, languages and religions, and encompasses first and third world standards of living. It consists of huge populations having long-established cultures and sophisticated value systems. The force that motivates and unites the Oblates is their concern for those most in need of Christ - evident from their exceptional closeness to the people.