Benedictine Sister of Perpetual Adoration Kathleen Clare Lahl, OSB has been named congregational oblate director. She previously served as oblate director for the congregation’s Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona, oblate chapters.
“The enthusiasm I witnessed in the oblates for regularly gathering for study, prayer, communal sharing and friendship never failed to impress upon me that truly this was the work of God in the lives of those who were seeking to know God, and I felt privileged as a member of the Benedictine Sisters to be a part of it.”
Taking over a program that relies on personal interaction could have proven difficult during a pandemic that restricted in-person meetings. However, Sister Kathleen Clare and oblates took advantage of video conferencing that allowed her to form bonds with those she had yet to meet and to strengthen relationships with oblates she already knew.
“I’m particularly grateful for this as it enables staying in touch with everyone near and far regardless of distance,” she said. “Nothing compares to being present to one another in person. As precautions and restrictions ease, it is my hope to be able to travel and visit our oblate chapters and to resume oblate events at our monastery.”
As she navigates her new position within the congregation, Sister Kathleen Clare is mindful of the Benedictine Sisters’ history with their oblates and the importance of partnerships with people of different backgrounds and faiths to welcome God more fully into their everyday lives.
“I am keenly aware of the dedication and self-giving shown by the Sisters who came before me who served as oblate directors. They were dedicated and had a heart-felt desire to serve those who were seeking a pathway to deeper spiritual meaning in their lives and companionships with others who were seeking to grow as well,” Sister Kathleen Clare said. “Those Sisters had each given of themselves in a real offering of love and have played a part in the opening of a way for God to dwell ever more deeply in the hearts and lives of those seeking him. I am grateful for the privilege of being a companion on the journey.”
For anyone interested in learning more about Benedictine oblates, please contact Sister Kathleen Clare at kathleenclr@gmail.com or by phone at (660) 944-2221.
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