Oblates from six states gathered for the Autumn Oblate Retreat October 5-8 at the Clyde, Missouri, monastery.
This was the first retreat for the Benedictine Sisters' Oblates since the COVID pandemic. Days were filled with daily conferences, personal prayer and reflection, and contemplative walks on the grounds. Retreatants were offered a number of opportunities to hear Sisters speak of the ministry and works of the community.
“The weekend was a wonderful renewal of my relationship with Christ in the times spent praying with others and the times spent praying alone,” Oblate Donna Drew said. “I especially loved doing Compline as a group. It was a wonderful way to end our days.”
Praying the Divine Office with the Sisters in chapel, and joining them for dinner each day in the refectory provided a monastic-like feel to the days.
“Just being at the monastery is a powerful blessing,” Oblate Mona Mitzel said.
“I enjoyed meeting so many new people from different states as well as a number of sisters living at the monastery,” Oblate Diane Olson Shroeder added. “Everyone was caring, accepting and very helpful. Thank you to the Sisters for offering this opportunity to seek solitude and renewal. I found both.” |
