Oblates & Friends
at Kylemore Abbey

In modern society, “oblate” is not a word very often used. For Benedictines, though, the concept of oblates has a long and rich history.

Many centuries ago, children offered to monasteries by members of the nobility were called “oblates” because they were too young to profess monastic vows. As that practice faded, it became common for adults who had been “pensioned off” – retired – from positions in the households of nobility or royalty to live in houses or institutions operated by the Benedictine monasteries, where they could willingly participate in the prayer and practices of the monastery.

The concept of Oblates – lay people who are affiliated with a specific Benedictine monastery, integrating the Rule of St. Benedict into their spiritual journey, based on their particular state in life (single or married) – has grown since those early days to where, in this 21st century, the Oblates of a monastery may outnumber the monks or nuns of the community as religious life continues to evolve.

Above all, Oblates are Christian lay men and women who dedicate themselves to “seeking God.” Taking to heart the wisdom of the Rule written by St. Benedict, they apply the guidance and practices to living their chosen vocation.

In this “school of the Lord’s service” – as the Prologue of the Rule describes the monastic life – Oblates are invited to follow a path that promotes the formation of an interior attitude which is open and responsive to the presence of God.

This invitation touches the heart, prompting the soul to begin a new stage on the Christian journey, while finding new ways to listen to God’s voice as heard in His word, in our neighbours, in the wonder of nature, and in every moment of the day.
By an affiliation with a specific Benedictine monastery, the Oblate:

• Commits to recite parts of the Divine Office – Morning and Evening Prayer.
• Makes a sincere effort to follow the teachings of Christ as set out in the Gospels.
• Integrates the guidelines found in the Rule of St. Benedict into the daily Christian journey through practices which bring justice, peace and harmony into relationships and lifestyle.
• Practices lectio divina – contemplative reading, especially of the Sacred Scriptures – as part of a regular prayer life, nurturing the spiritual journey.

If you’d like to learn more about becoming an Oblate of the Monastery of the Immaculate Conception at Kylemore Abbey, please email the Sister in charge of the Oblate program at: info@kylemoreabbey.ie