Oblates

Who is an Oblate?
Benedictine Oblates are Christian men and women of various backgrounds, faith traditions and lifestyles who have experienced a call to deepen their spirituality according to the spirit and vision of St. Benedict. By doing this they find support to actively live out their baptismal covenant which is the wellspring of their Christian spirituality.

Why become an Oblate?
Women and men become Oblates because they find that God's call to ever increasing wholeness is facilitated in their lives by sharing with others.

Oblates give shape to their lives by living the wisdom of Christ as interpreted by St. Benedict in his Rule.  They cultivate a monastic heart as they witness to the gospel message of Jesus Christ while continuing to live in their own homes.

How do Oblates share the basic values of Benedictine life?
   -by deepening their relationship with the God who dwells within and in
    whom all dwell through prayer and lectio divina (sacred reading)
   -recognizing and participating in the earthwork of the Spirit that calls all
    that exists into community
   -cultivating peace and acting with justice in relationships
   -witnessing to Benedictine hospitality
   -participating, as possible, in the liturgy and activities of the local church community.

How do I become an Oblate?                                                                                                              

There are three steps to becoming a Benedictine Oblate of the House of Bread monastery.
Step 1: 'Come and See':
             Take time to acquaint yourself with the Oblate community by
             participating in the activities that are offered.

Step 2:  Enrolment as Candidate:
             The period of candidacy gives time for a decision about entering
             into a deeper commitment.  During this time you learn about
             Bendcitine spirituality through formal study, sharing and by 
             participation in the opportunities offered.

Step 3:  Becoming an Oblate:
             After the period of candidacy you make a final commitment.  
             As an Oblate you live out your Benedctine spirituality and
continue your contacts with monastic and Oblate community. Your service
reflects the monastery's mission in your local situation.
       



Contact person:        Oblate Director
                                2329 Arbot Rd.
                                Nanaimo, B.C.
                                V9R 6S8
                                250 753 1763
                                houseofbread@shaw.ca