Who We Are

Oblates of St. Benedict are Christian men and women of all faiths: divorced, single, married and widowed who associate themselves with a Benedictine monastery in order to enrich their Christian way of life. Oblates shape their lives by living the wisdom of Christ as interpreted by St. Benedict. Oblates seek God by striving to become holy in their chosen way of life. By integrating their prayer and work, they manifest Christ's presence in society. (An Introduction to Oblates of St. Benedict)

Oblates commit themselves to live in the spirit of the Rule of Benedict and the directives of Oblates of their particular monastery. Oblates become representatives of their monastic community but do not live in a monastic house.

Interested persons make inquiry to the Director of Oblates who will provide the information to become an Oblate. The inquirer enters the program, makes an initial commitment for one year and then makes a final Oblation at the Oblation Ceremony. 

 

To Become an Oblate

"Laity are Called to be Holy, Experience Benedictine
Lives as Oblates"
 

As we begin this second millennium, we examine how Christianity evolved in the first millennium. It is noted that Christian men and women fled to the desert to live ascetic lives complete with poverty, chastity and obedience. These became the basis of the Rule of Saint Benedict, "one of the most influential documents of Western civilization." Monasteries were established as places set apart for those called to fully "participate in the life
of Christ." It was the monks who became Christianity's greatest missionaries planting the church in England, Ireland and other outposts beyond Rome.

Today men and women, of all faiths, can become holy by becoming a Benedictine Oblate. Benedictine Oblates associate themselves with a Benedictine Monastery to receive help and guidance for living a full Christian Live. They are guided by the teaching of Christ as set down and interpreted by St. Benedict. The Oblates role is not one of a monk or nun. Rather, they strive to live in the world, become holy in the world and do what they can to
bring the world to God by being witnesses of Christ.

Persons seeking information contact Sister Phyllis Hunhoff, OSB., Director of the Lincoln Benedictine Oblates.