| Sisters
host Oblate members
The Sisters at the Monastery of St. Gertrude hosted their Oblate members April 20-22. Attending the weekend event were oblates, oblate candidates and inquirers. Prioress Clarissa Goeckner received seven new oblate members into the program during Sunday Morning Prayer. There are 59 oblates associated with the Monastery of St. Gertrude and 25 inquirers and candidates. They participate in activities like the Raspberry Festival and serve on the Social Justice Committee, attend retreats and volunteer for different projects. 
Benedictine oblates are women and men who affiliate with the monastic community to deepen their relationship with God and to serve the people of God in their home setting. Oblates - meaning an "offering of oneself" - live the spirituality of the Rule of St. Benedict in their daily lives as single or married individuals. Women and men who are interested in becoming oblates at the Monastery of St. Gertrude start as inquirers and become candidates after 1-2 years. During their candidacy, they are mentored by another oblate or a sister of the monastery. When oblate candidates have discerned their readiness to commit to the oblate way of life, they make their final commitment. After a person makes a final commitment to life as an oblate, he or she follows the Rule and these Benedictine spiritual principles: . Preferring nothing to Christ. . Seeking God daily through "lectio divina," prayerful meditation over Scripture and spiritual reading. . Continuing conversion of heart. . Striving for stability of heart and fidelity to the faith. . Listening in loving obedience to the will of God. . Balancing one's prayer and work. . Practicing moderation in all things. . Accepting the uniqueness of each individual. Oblates serve as a link between the monastic community, parishes and other Christian groups. They served to educate the public about Benedictine spirituality and the benefits of the Benedictine way of life. If you would like more information, please call Sr. Teresa Jackson, 208.962.3224. |
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