I spent Saturday with our oblates in Bedford, VA. It was a retreat day for the deanery - about 20 faithful friends of our monastic community. Oblates are an integral part of the mission of every Benedictine house. These good women and men take the spirituality of Saint Benedict out into the world for us. They are good Christians - of many denominations - who in marriage or single life, let the Holy Rule become part of their journey. It is a Benedictine way of life that runs parallel to ours in the monastery. They add their love and energy to our projects and passions. I can't imagine our life without them.
That said... Saturday was a very special day. We took stock of our Lenten observances - the graces that come with the failures, being lost and being found. We contemplated the Lord's entry into Jerusalem - the city that kills its prophets. Shared lectio, reflection and holy conversation created a bond of spiritual intimacy among us. Dwelling together on the richness of the the Triduum, we approached the Paschal Mystery with awe and gratitude. I have never felt more ready to enter into these holy days. I am grateful to our Bedford oblates for their willingness to walk so closely with the suffering Christ. It is in His journey that we make sense of our own. We will all go to Jerusalem...and beyond death we will know the joy of the resurrection.
Blessings and love to you all...
- Sister Vicki
