Oblates of saint benedict

Being a Benedictine Oblate has had a tremendous effect on my life and I am truly a better person because of it.  The Benedictine insistence on balance between work, play and study, and on living in the present, helped me minister as Director of Religious Education at Holy Name Parish for 23 years (the average burnout rate is 18 months).  Their emphasis on hospitality and peacemaking has inspired me for over 30 years and challenged me to continue becoming more patient, gentle and accepting of others.  I miss the physical precesnce of the monastery but am grateful that our Oblate group has continued to meet and study and pray together and to benefit from the sisters' wisdom through Zoom meetings.  --Cel


Being with our Benedictine Sisters in prayer, in discussion and even in spirit gives me a sweet heartfelt joy!            --Meg

I look forward to our Oblate meetings whether by Zoom or in person.  I always learn something from the readings chosen for study and I believe my spiritual understanding and beliefs are renewed and shared by the Oblate studies and the Rule of Benedict.  Most everything has to do with spiritual growth and a knowledge of surrender.  That is what I believe the Benedictine sisters have done for our community.  --Teresa


It is hard to describe the depth of my appreciation and love for being part of the Benedictine Oblate group.  Spiritual growth and fellowship are key components of what it means to me to be an Oblate.  There is so much wisdom and spiritual depth to be found in St. Benedict's Rule.  The Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration are so generous, kind, hospitable, and knowledgeable.  We are very blessed to have them join us by Zoom at our meetings  Being an Oblate has been an incredible blessing and gift.  I am very lucky and thankful for the opportunity to be part of the group.  --Mary S.

Studying the Rule of St. Benedict provides valuable tools and processes to grow closer to God.  The Steps of Humility (Chapter 7) have caused me to rethinkg what Christian humility is and how I can use this wisdom in daily life.  The Tools for Good Works (Chapter 4) provide concrete examples of how to live a Christian life in service to God and my fellow humans.  Being a Benedictine Oblate is a lifelong process and includes discernment, consistent prayer and extensive study of the Rule.  The Sheridan Oblates group is a great place for conversation, in-depth learning, and shared knowledge form those who have been on the journey for longer than I have.  Our meetings are truly the best Saturday of the month!  --Ariel


I like the group participation at our Oblate meetings.  Sharing what we learn through our individual studies is a great way to grow our faith.  A big plus has been meeting, via Zoom, with Sisters Hope and Kathleen Clare, Oblate Director form the Benedictine Monastery in Clyde, MO.  They provide us with excellent spiritual guidance.  --Cathy

Being an Oblate of St. Benedict means having a supportive group of lay people who are dedicated to living their lives according to the Rule of St. Benedict.  When I first came to Sheridan, I had been in Spiritual Direction with a sister from the Dayton Monastery but it took over a year for me to learn about the Oblates of St. Benedict and that was by chance.  Another parishioner and I worked the Introductory Process together meeting once a week under the supervision of one of the Benedictine Nuns at the Dayton Monastery.  At the year mark we made our Oblation, and we renew our commitment yearly on the Feast Day of St. Benedict in July.   

Over the years I have grown to cherish the monthly meetings when I can attend because it helps reinforce and solidify the Rule and that I am not alone in this journey.

I am blessed having had the opportunity to join the Oblates and encourage anyone who desires a closer walk with Jesus to consider joining as a part of your way to closer union with Him.  With the additional plus of having a supportive group of lay persons to walk the journey with you.     --Riki