What is an oblate in a Benedictine monastery?

As you learn about how to become a monk, you have likely heard the term “oblate.” It refers to a layperson who is spiritually affiliated with a monastic community (like that of St. Bede’s), but doesn’t take any religious vows.

In a Benedictine community, like our monastery in Illinois, an oblate follows the principles of The Rule of St. Benedict, while still living and working in the secular world. Among their daily routines and responsibilities, they integrate Benedictine spirituality, like a monks’ prayer, work and community.

While they are not full members of a monastery, oblates are considered an extended part of a Benedictine community. They engage in regular prayer and study, often alongside the monks. Oblates lean on the monks and nuns for guidance, and will even visit the monastery for retreats and special events.

Learn about the Rule of St. Benedict here.

Answering the call to be a Benedictine oblate

So what inspires a layperson to become an oblate? Most of the time, they are seeking to grow closer to God, albeit while remaining in the secular world. They may recognize that a structured spiritual practice could be a helpful guide in their daily lives. And they are drawn to Benedictine spirituality, and its emphasis on balance, prayer and work.

The Rule of St. Benedict, of course, provides a practical guide for this lifestyle. Specifically, the text offers direction for those seeking stability and discipline within a religious context. Amongst the busyness of life, the oblate is able to stay grounded and achieve a sense of peace.

One must also consider the Benedictine emphasis on community, hospitality and fellowship. For an oblate, this is the chance to become part of a larger spiritual family within a monastery.

Additionally, the secular world presents challenges in bridging the gap between spirituality and everyday life. Responsibilities to work or family make it difficult to fully integrate our faith into daily living. By becoming an oblate, prayer, service, and contemplation become cornerstones of day-to-day activities.

Humility and service are also key values in Benedictine spirituality. For an oblate, this is the chance to engage in charitable work, hospitality or even just bringing kindness and stability into one’s surroundings. It should be a call to care for others, whether it’s in the family, workplace or community.

Finally, oblates commit to an ongoing spiritual formation, not unlike the Benedictine monks. That includes studying Scripture, The Rule of St. Benedict and other monastic writings, such as St. Bede’s works. And as with the larger Benedictine order, this path is about continual growth and conversion of heart, not spiritual perfection.

Becoming a Benedictine oblate

The first steps to becoming a Benedictine oblate often mirror the process to become a monk. There are early stirrings—a period of discernment to decide if this is the right path. An oblate may visit the monastery and meet with monks to better understand what lies ahead.

If the person decides to proceed, they will enter a period of formation which can last up to a year. During this time, the oblate candidate may study The Rule and practice Benedictine spirituality in their daily life. Additionally, the person may establish a relationship with a monastic community like St. Bede’s. And in some cases, the monastery assigns a mentor or spiritual director.

After this period, the candidate will make a formal commitment as a novice oblate. Traditionally, there is a ceremony in which the novice receives a copy of The Rule. Then, after about another year, the novice can choose to make a Final Oblation, or Life Commitment.

Oblates do not take monastic vows. Rather, an oblate makes an oblation, or lifelong commitment to living according to Benedictine principles in the secular world. Once again, there is a ceremony at the monastery where the oblate offers a written or spoken promise before the community.

Learn about the specific Benedictine monastic vows here.

The responsibilities of a Benedictine oblate

Many of the key practices of a Benedictine monk are mirrored in the lives of the oblates. For example, oblates will engage in daily monk’s prayer, including at least portions of the Liturgy of the Hours. Additionally, an oblate will also meditate on scripture and practice lectio divina (sacred reading). And, of course, the oblate regularly attends Mass and receives the sacraments.

The Rule acts as a guide for the oblates, just as it does the monks. The Benedictine values of stability, obedience, and conversion of life are present in the routines of the life of an oblate—although they are re-contextualized inside the realms of family, work and community. The oblate will cultivate a spirit of humility, simplicity, and hospitality. And likewise, an oblate must practice moderation in daily habits like work, leisure and consumption.

Learn more about conversion of life here.

The oblate is expected to maintain a relationship with the monastery, participating in meetings and retreats. He supports the monastic community through the monks’ prayer and, if possible, charitable contributions or volunteer work.

Just as the Benedictines uphold the value of ora et labora (work and prayer), the oblates view their daily work as a means of serving God and others. For example, they will bring principles like integrity, patience and balance into their professional lives.

Similarly, the Benedictine values of hospitality and service are present in the oblate’s life. An oblate is encouraged to welcome others with kindness and generosity. And they serve their local community through acts of charity and social responsibility.

Joining a monastic community

If you feel the call to Benedictine life—as a monk or as an oblate—we encourage you to reach out to our monastery in Illinois.

You can get started by filling out the content form linked here.