HOW DOES ONE BECOME AN OBLATE?

         There have been rules and statues for Oblates in common usage in Holy Tradition for about two hundred years. These cover not only the basic requirements for admission to the life, but the conduct of the life after the final oblation. They are not meant to be a burden, but rather a help, those choosing this journey to Our Lord.

          Not only priests, but also the faithful of either gender, may be received as Oblates of Emmaus House Priory. As it is the duty of Oblates to aspire to a holy life, none will be admitted but persons of solid character and good reputation.
 

THE POSTULANCY

         The start of the journey is to become a postulant oblate. This state continues for a period of three months to one year, depending on the rapidity of the spiritual development of the individual.
 

DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS OF OBLATES

Before all things, Oblates must fulfil the duties of their states of life with the utmost fidelity. One would have to be rebuked for the neglecting of secular obligations (to family, for example) in order to take up the commitments of following the life of an Oblate.

THE RULE OF LIFE

         In developing a rule of life the Oblate should also include the following:

1. The consecration of each Tuesday to our Holy Father Benedict by either attending Mass or reciting the Litany of St. Benedict; and the celebration of, and encouraging the same, the major feasts of the Saint during the year, March 21 and July 18.
2. Regular mediation in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament (the Holy Hour).
3. To pray two offices daily.
4. Regular study of the Holy Scriptures, preferably weekly.
5. In daily prayers to remember the concerns listing the Intercession Paper, published monthly by the Order.
6. To prayer daily for the Order and other Oblates and Associates.
7. To attend a structured and guided retreat at least once a year.
8. To support the Order financially with a pledge.
 

PRIEST OBLATES

         Clergy are often so very much absorbed in the needs of their parishes that, without direct spiritual discipline, they fail to take heed of their own souls. The Rule of Saint Benedict requires that each live a balanced life and that caring for oneself is needed. The Benedictine way of life fits the life of a priest very nicely, and over the centuries clergy have found the Benedictine discipline to be the answer to their spiritual needs.

For further information about becoming an Oblate, please email Father Michael.