On Saturday we accepted a new class of Oblate Novices (11) and received the oblate profession of seven good people who have spent two years preparing for this day. Oblates are part of our monastic community – faithful women and men, married, single, of various Christian denominations – who have embraced the Rule of Benedict and promise to live it out in the world to the extent their state in life permits. Oblation is a life-time commitment to our spirituality and to the mission of our monastic community. Oblation binds a lay person to this particular monastery – much in the way my promise of stability binds me to the community at Bristow. Making oblate profession is a public act within the Church, like my own monastic profession, and comes with a canonical status all its own.
My Dad is the first parent in our community to become an oblate of our house. I still remember his profession day vividly and the memory makes me smile. When I write to my Dad, I address the envelope properly: Edward P. Ix, Obl. SB [Oblate of Saint Benedict] I’m just a little bit proud...
Our Oblates are dear to us. We could not continue God’s work without their presence and participation in our life. The gifts they bring are plentiful and diverse. Most profound, for me, is their dedication to taking St. Benedict out into the world and allowing their spirituality as Oblates to inform every part of their lives. Your way of acting should be different from the world's way; the love of Christ must come before all else (RB 4). They are the hands of our community heart. And everyday, as our prioress, Sister Cecilia, told them, they are remembered in our grateful prayers.
Blessings and love to you all...
- Sister Vicki
