Oblates

What is an Oblate of Saint Benedict?

Oblates of St. Benedict are Christian people who have associated themselves with a Benedictine Community 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 serving him in their chosen way of life. By integrating their prayer and work, they endeavour to show Christ's presence clearly in society.

St. Paul tells us that each member of the body of Christ, the Church, has a special function to perform. Many are called to the married state and the raising of a family. Some are called to the single life in the world and others to the single life in Monastic or Religious Communities of men and women. The role of Oblates is to live in the world, to seek God's holiness in the world, to do what they can to bring the world to God by being witnesses of Christ by word and example to those around them.

Oblates concern themselves with striving to be what they are, people of God and temples of the Holy Spirit. Their prayer life will flow from this awareness, as will their willingness to offer themselves (that is the meaning of the word oblate) for the service of God and neighbour to the best of their ability.

For detailed information on becoming an Oblate please refer to our On Line Documents section of our website. The Oblates of St Mark's Manual contains comprehensive information.