What is an Oblate?

An Oblate of St. Benedict is a Christian affiliated with a Benedictine monastery for the purpose of enriching her/his Christian way of life by sharing in the spiritual life, prayers, and good works of the community. Since St. Benedict founded his Order about 1500 years ago, Christians have sought to associate themselves with his monasteries. St. Frances of Rome, Henry II, Duke of Bavaria, Thomas More, and Dorothy Day are among this cloud of witnesses. Our men and women Oblates here at St. Scholastica come from all walks of life, represent a variety of Christian denominations, and have varied avocations and vocations.

The Oblate does not live in the monastery and does not take vows. Each continues to carry out the usual duties of her/his state of life in whatever chosen occupation or profession. Encouraged by the wisdom of the Rule, the Oblate strives to keep a balance between work, prayer and leisure. Because of the close spiritual union with the sisters, the Oblate becomes an extension of the community and gives witness to the Benedictine charism in the secular world. The Oblate is encouraged to find God's Presence in all people, places and times, and to help others come to this same awareness.

Enlightened by the Holy Spirit, the Oblate seeks to understand Christ's teaching in the Scriptures as interpreted by St. Benedict in his Rule. The Oblate is encouraged to offer cooperation and leadership in civic and parish life; and also to show love and concern for those in need whenever possible. Christ tells us, "By this will all know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

Why be an Oblate?

To find deeper meaning in life by following the Benedictine way, focusing on what is important: faithful prayer, good works, community and Christian hospitality.

To be a witness. Vatican Council encourages the laity to exercise an active role in the church's mission to the world. Spiritually associated with a Benedictine community, the Oblate is in a favored position to do this. Pope Paul VI, in an address to Benedictine abbots said, "the modern world needs to be shaken and disturbed by the example of Benedictine prayer and work." This applies also to the Oblate who reflects the life and spirit of the community to which she/he is affiliated.

Basic Values

Some basic values of Benedictine Life that are shared with the Oblate are the following:

  • seeking God through prayer and recollection
  • developing attentiveness to the Word of God by frequent Scripture reading
  • cultivating a deep reverence for life and all creation
  • preferring simplicity to extravagant living
  • seeing work as service
  • participating more fully in one's local church
  • working for peace in the world
  • living a balanced life

Invitation

The St. Scholastica community extends to the Oblate an invitation:

  • to unite her/his prayer daily to that of the community
  • to share with the community in the celebration of Eucharist and the Divine Office
  • to attend some enrichment opportunities with the Community
  • to participate in the works of the Community as one is able
  • to extend the spirit of the Community wherever they are
  • to strive to know the community and what it is doing
  • to encourage others who are attracted to the Benedictine way of life.

How can one become an Oblate?

Ask for information. A person desiring to become an Oblate can visit, call, or write to the Oblate Director. She will arrange an interview to explain the process and expectations of becoming an Oblate.

Pursue further contact. After the initial contact the applicant is invited to attend the scheduled Oblate meetings. Appropriate reading material is given for study. After several meetings with the Director, the year of candidacy begins with a simple ceremony in which the Candidate receives a copy of the Rule of Benedict and a Benedictine medal. During this time of discernment the Candidate studies the Rule to discover how it can apply to her/his life. Instruction is offered at the meetings and/or through personal contact and correspondence with the Director.

Make Act of Oblation. After a year of discernment, if the Candidate is still willing, she/he will make final Oblation, which is renewed annually. The Act of Oblation is not a vow; it is a solemn promise made to God which is not to be considered lightly. The candidate makes a commitment to be a faithful witness of Christ with the support of the Benedictine community. This commitment is made at a special ceremony. A signed document of Oblation is given to those making Oblation.

Oblate Program Staff 

Sr. Magdalen Stanton, Director
E-mail: Sr. Magdalen

Assistants:

St. Vincent's (Conway County)
 Sr. Madeline Clifton and Sr. Rosemary Rufener

Springfield, MO
Sr. Stephanie Schroeder and Sr. Regina Schroeder