from May 1997 RB "NOTES"
An Oblate of Saint Benedict is a Christian lay person who associates one's self with a Benedictine monastery in order to share in the spiritual and material good works of the community. An Oblate does not live in community, nor take vows, but carries out the usual duties of one's particular state in life, wherever one is, continuing whatever profession or occupation in life one has while caring for family, friends and others.
The purpose of being affiliated with a Benedictine community is to receive help and guidance to develop a richer prayer life and to live a fuller Christian life. Thus, the role of an Oblate in the Church is, to live in the world, to become holy in the world, and do what one can to bring the world to God.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
May 1997 - An Enriching Journey with the Oblates of St. Gertrude Continues
from May 1997 RB "NOTES"
Picture 1 includes Betty and Gerry Millea, Fran Dunnington, Mary and Clarence Kibler, Susie Booze, ?, Rosemary Kinnamon, Mary Ann Palmer, ?Roland Fountain, Elizabeth Owens.
Picture 2 includes Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek, Sr. Mary Paul McLaughlin, and Sr. Claire Ableman
The transfer of leadership of the Oblates of St. Gertrude Monastery took place during the Annual Retreat Day in April. Sr. Mary Paul McLaughlin, Prioress, presided over the ceremony in which Sr. Claire Ableman replaced Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek as Oblate Directress.
Sr. Barbara Ann first began working with the Oblates as an assistant to Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk, her predessor, from 1988 to 1990. In May, 1990, Sr. Barbara Ann became Oblate Directress, a position she has enjoyed for the last seven years.
Having a Scripture and teaching background as well as possessing a keen interest in the RULE of BENEDICT, had helped prepare Sr. Barbara Ann for this enrichign experience.
"Being Oblate Directress put into practice Benedict's concept of the monastery as 'a school of the Lord's service,'" noted Sr. Barbara Ann. "Although my role was to be the facilitator, at times, I became the student. The experience of being Oblate Directress was an exchange of gifts as Matthew says in his Gospel, 'The gift you have received give as a gift.'"
Sr. Claire Ableman, who has a Scripture and teaching background as well as many years of ...[continued on page 6 which is temporarily not available]
Picture 1 includes Betty and Gerry Millea, Fran Dunnington, Mary and Clarence Kibler, Susie Booze, ?, Rosemary Kinnamon, Mary Ann Palmer, ?Roland Fountain, Elizabeth Owens.
Picture 2 includes Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek, Sr. Mary Paul McLaughlin, and Sr. Claire Ableman
The transfer of leadership of the Oblates of St. Gertrude Monastery took place during the Annual Retreat Day in April. Sr. Mary Paul McLaughlin, Prioress, presided over the ceremony in which Sr. Claire Ableman replaced Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek as Oblate Directress.
Sr. Barbara Ann first began working with the Oblates as an assistant to Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk, her predessor, from 1988 to 1990. In May, 1990, Sr. Barbara Ann became Oblate Directress, a position she has enjoyed for the last seven years.
Having a Scripture and teaching background as well as possessing a keen interest in the RULE of BENEDICT, had helped prepare Sr. Barbara Ann for this enrichign experience.
"Being Oblate Directress put into practice Benedict's concept of the monastery as 'a school of the Lord's service,'" noted Sr. Barbara Ann. "Although my role was to be the facilitator, at times, I became the student. The experience of being Oblate Directress was an exchange of gifts as Matthew says in his Gospel, 'The gift you have received give as a gift.'"
Sr. Claire Ableman, who has a Scripture and teaching background as well as many years of ...[continued on page 6 which is temporarily not available]
September 1992 - A Decade Ends for Oblate Directress
from September 1992 RB "NOTES"
Often in years past, Sisters had expressed the desirability of having Oblates of St. Benedict affiliated with St. Gertrude's. Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk was always the most ardent proponent of such a program. During Lent of 1982, Sr. Patricia supported and encouraged her in inviting persons who might be interested in the idea. Sixteen women and men responded by joining the Sisters for Mass and dinner on May 27 of that year. Rev. Adrian Fuerst, OSB of St. Meinrad Archabbey, then discussed with them the meaning and advantages of Benedictine oblation. A year and a half later, seven persons made their commitment. Nearly every year since then, there has been a commitment ceremony for new Oblates.
During the first decade, Sr. Miriam Ruth directed the program. Sr. Anselma Biskach has assisted, especially by her moral support and by chauferring. Srs. Mary Joseph Dougherty, Marie Consolata Billingsley, and Mary Louise Robino have given invaluable help in meetings held in the Wilmington area. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek became co-directress and is now in charge of the program.
Although Sr. Miriam Ruth coordinated most of the monthly sessions, she often invited guest speakers, especially for days of recollection. Frequently, too, Sr. Patricia or some other member of the community led a discussion on the Liturgy of the Hours or on some aspect of the RULE and monastic life. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann, as assistant, had addressed the group. Hence, there was nothing unusual on the first Sunday of May when the latter chaired the session. The theme and the outcome were a surprise to Sr. Miriam Ruth, however; for it was a farewell and ....[rest of article temporarily missing]
Often in years past, Sisters had expressed the desirability of having Oblates of St. Benedict affiliated with St. Gertrude's. Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk was always the most ardent proponent of such a program. During Lent of 1982, Sr. Patricia supported and encouraged her in inviting persons who might be interested in the idea. Sixteen women and men responded by joining the Sisters for Mass and dinner on May 27 of that year. Rev. Adrian Fuerst, OSB of St. Meinrad Archabbey, then discussed with them the meaning and advantages of Benedictine oblation. A year and a half later, seven persons made their commitment. Nearly every year since then, there has been a commitment ceremony for new Oblates.
During the first decade, Sr. Miriam Ruth directed the program. Sr. Anselma Biskach has assisted, especially by her moral support and by chauferring. Srs. Mary Joseph Dougherty, Marie Consolata Billingsley, and Mary Louise Robino have given invaluable help in meetings held in the Wilmington area. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek became co-directress and is now in charge of the program.
Although Sr. Miriam Ruth coordinated most of the monthly sessions, she often invited guest speakers, especially for days of recollection. Frequently, too, Sr. Patricia or some other member of the community led a discussion on the Liturgy of the Hours or on some aspect of the RULE and monastic life. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann, as assistant, had addressed the group. Hence, there was nothing unusual on the first Sunday of May when the latter chaired the session. The theme and the outcome were a surprise to Sr. Miriam Ruth, however; for it was a farewell and ....[rest of article temporarily missing]
Fall 1990 - On Being an Oblate, Gerald Millea, Obl. OSB
from Fall 1990 RB "NOTES"
When Betty and I were invited to become acquainted with the Oblate program, I was not enthusiastic. I was concerned that joining a "spiritual group" would become an onerous, unnecessary burden, even in the daily life of a retiree. Was I not already striving to live the Christian life?
Now, I give heartfelt thanks to the Lord for having become an Oblate affiliated with St. Gertrude's Benedictine community!
Being an Oblate has added immeasurably to my spiritual development, to my attempt to live as a Christian should, to growth in love and service, to my marriage.
How has being an Oblate brought about these benefits? By attempting to live the RULE of BENEDICT; by being encouraged and guided in reading -- and meditating on -- the Bible and various other spiritual materials; by instruction and guidance in learning to pray; by the monthly brief (often proving too frief) instructional meetings and periodic Days of Recollection; by the inspiring affiliation with St. Gertrude's religious community; by the community's example; by the support, prayers, and inspiration provided by other Oblates; by Betty and my praying together and participating in the Liturgy of the Hours. (If you want to know more about how to apply the ageless RULE to our modern daily lives, read Esther de Waal's ON SEEKING GOD, for example.)
I wish I had become an Oblate years ago!
When Betty and I were invited to become acquainted with the Oblate program, I was not enthusiastic. I was concerned that joining a "spiritual group" would become an onerous, unnecessary burden, even in the daily life of a retiree. Was I not already striving to live the Christian life?
Now, I give heartfelt thanks to the Lord for having become an Oblate affiliated with St. Gertrude's Benedictine community!
Being an Oblate has added immeasurably to my spiritual development, to my attempt to live as a Christian should, to growth in love and service, to my marriage.
How has being an Oblate brought about these benefits? By attempting to live the RULE of BENEDICT; by being encouraged and guided in reading -- and meditating on -- the Bible and various other spiritual materials; by instruction and guidance in learning to pray; by the monthly brief (often proving too frief) instructional meetings and periodic Days of Recollection; by the inspiring affiliation with St. Gertrude's religious community; by the community's example; by the support, prayers, and inspiration provided by other Oblates; by Betty and my praying together and participating in the Liturgy of the Hours. (If you want to know more about how to apply the ageless RULE to our modern daily lives, read Esther de Waal's ON SEEKING GOD, for example.)
I wish I had become an Oblate years ago!
Fall 1990 - Reflections on Being an Oblate, Betty Millea, Obl. OSB
from Fall 1990 RB "NOTES"
J[G]erry and I have been asked for a reflection on "Being an Oblate." We have decided that we shall work separately for this project. First, I shall tell how I feel about being an Oblate of St. Benedict; and then Jerry will share his reflections. They may be the same; they may be quite different. Let's see!
Jerry and I like to start our daily worship by offering Morning Praise together. It makes us aware of God's presence with us that day. Through this prayer of the Church, we glorify God, give praise, and render thanks for all the blessings and gifts that are ours. And we also tell God of our needs. To start the day in such a manner is really great. When we omit Morning Praise for a day or two, it begins to "show." It seems that we haven't put the emphasis where it belongs in our daily lives -- which, as we grow older -- become shorter and shorter!
Being an Oblate deepens one's religious view of life. St. Benedict teaches many ways to develop that view; e.g., it's learning to listen; learning to pray, play, and work each day; learning moderation; and it's learning to be a part of and to participate in a wonderful Christian community. I feel at home at St. Gertrude's. The Sisters share so much with the Oblates; they give us lessons in real hospitality. I think of how they treat us, and that makes me want to treat our guests in the same way; i.e., being totally there for our guests or -- as a matter of fact -- there for all who cross our paths. Lastly, it's sharing with Sr. Miriam Ruth, our directress from the beginning, in appreciating all she does to make us better Oblates over the years.
J[G]erry and I have been asked for a reflection on "Being an Oblate." We have decided that we shall work separately for this project. First, I shall tell how I feel about being an Oblate of St. Benedict; and then Jerry will share his reflections. They may be the same; they may be quite different. Let's see!
Jerry and I like to start our daily worship by offering Morning Praise together. It makes us aware of God's presence with us that day. Through this prayer of the Church, we glorify God, give praise, and render thanks for all the blessings and gifts that are ours. And we also tell God of our needs. To start the day in such a manner is really great. When we omit Morning Praise for a day or two, it begins to "show." It seems that we haven't put the emphasis where it belongs in our daily lives -- which, as we grow older -- become shorter and shorter!
Being an Oblate deepens one's religious view of life. St. Benedict teaches many ways to develop that view; e.g., it's learning to listen; learning to pray, play, and work each day; learning moderation; and it's learning to be a part of and to participate in a wonderful Christian community. I feel at home at St. Gertrude's. The Sisters share so much with the Oblates; they give us lessons in real hospitality. I think of how they treat us, and that makes me want to treat our guests in the same way; i.e., being totally there for our guests or -- as a matter of fact -- there for all who cross our paths. Lastly, it's sharing with Sr. Miriam Ruth, our directress from the beginning, in appreciating all she does to make us better Oblates over the years.
Fall 1990 - Betty Manning Enters New Life
from Fall 1990 Ridgely Benedictine NOTES
On June 26, Betty Manning, Obl. OSB, made her final oblation to God as she died peacefully, at age 64, in Florida.
The Community first met Betty soon after she and husband, Don, moved from New Jersey to nearby Bridgetown. After Jogging in the safety and quiet of the monastery grounds, Betty often joined the Sisters for the 6:30 Mass and occasionally had her morning coffee with them. It wasn't long before she volunteered at St. Martin's Barn; and Don, a retired physical education teacher, helped at the Benedictine School.
On October 21 of 1984, Betty was among the second group to make their offering as Oblates of St. Benedict at St. Gertrude's. After she was diagnosed with cancer, and even when she and Don moved to Florida, she kept in touch with the Community: she sent pictures of herself and her new home, described her parish involvement, mailed her handmade items for the annual craft sale, and often wrote to Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk, Directress of the Oblate program.
The Sisters and Oblates remember Betty as a model of faith and cheerfulness; and they are confident that they have in her an intercessor for them and their needs.
On June 26, Betty Manning, Obl. OSB, made her final oblation to God as she died peacefully, at age 64, in Florida.
The Community first met Betty soon after she and husband, Don, moved from New Jersey to nearby Bridgetown. After Jogging in the safety and quiet of the monastery grounds, Betty often joined the Sisters for the 6:30 Mass and occasionally had her morning coffee with them. It wasn't long before she volunteered at St. Martin's Barn; and Don, a retired physical education teacher, helped at the Benedictine School.
On October 21 of 1984, Betty was among the second group to make their offering as Oblates of St. Benedict at St. Gertrude's. After she was diagnosed with cancer, and even when she and Don moved to Florida, she kept in touch with the Community: she sent pictures of herself and her new home, described her parish involvement, mailed her handmade items for the annual craft sale, and often wrote to Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk, Directress of the Oblate program.
The Sisters and Oblates remember Betty as a model of faith and cheerfulness; and they are confident that they have in her an intercessor for them and their needs.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Oblate Directress History 2012 - 1983
- 2012 - Present ---- Sister MaryLou Robino, O.S.B.
- 2008 - 2011 ---- Sister Roni Daniels, O.S.B.
- 2003 - 2008 ---- Sister Mary Paul McLaughlin, O.S.B.
- 1997 - 2003 ---- Sister Immaculata Houtman, O.S.B.
- 1997 - 1997 ---- Sister Claire Ableman, O.S.B.
- 1990 - 1997 ---- Sister Barbara Ann Gondek, O.S.B. [1988-1990 Co-Directress]
- 1986 ---- Sister Stephen Marshalewski, Assistant Directress in Wilmington, DE
- 1983 - 1990 ---- Sister Miriam Ruth Wilk, O.S.B., Foundress
- 1983 ---- Sister Patricia Gamgort, O.S.B., Prioress, Initiator
Winter 1986 "Noteworthy"
from Ridgely Benedictine Notes "Noteworthy" section Winter 1986
Oblate Notes - Recent meeting for the Oblates of St. Benedict affiliated with St. Gertrude Priory included talks on Our Lady of Montserrat and Our Lady of Einsiedeln. January's discussion centered on St. Benedict in the context of the monastic tradition, and February was devoted to Lectio Divina.
Sr. Stephen Marshalewski now assists Sr. Miriam Ruth at the Oblate sessions when they are held at St. Elizabeth's in Wilmington.
Oblate Notes - Recent meeting for the Oblates of St. Benedict affiliated with St. Gertrude Priory included talks on Our Lady of Montserrat and Our Lady of Einsiedeln. January's discussion centered on St. Benedict in the context of the monastic tradition, and February was devoted to Lectio Divina.
Sr. Stephen Marshalewski now assists Sr. Miriam Ruth at the Oblate sessions when they are held at St. Elizabeth's in Wilmington.
Spring 1985 - "Noteworthy"
from Ridgely Benedictine Notes, "Noteworthy" section Spring 1985
Although the Oblates of St. Benedict are always apprciative of the programs which Sr. Miriam Ruth arranges for them, there was an unusually positive response to the March 3 [1985] session's "Call to Discipleship," a talk given by Mother Patricia.
Although the Oblates of St. Benedict are always apprciative of the programs which Sr. Miriam Ruth arranges for them, there was an unusually positive response to the March 3 [1985] session's "Call to Discipleship," a talk given by Mother Patricia.
Winter, 1983-84 - Oblation Ceremony Held at Priory
article from Winter, 1983-84 Vol. III, Number 2 Ridgely Benedictine Notes
The jubilee day of November 19, 1983, was crowned by another event, the first of its kind in the long history of the Ridgely Benedictine Community. Mother Patricia Gamgort presided over the oblation ceremony of seven persons from northern Delaware. The Community's first Oblates of St. Benedict are the following: Susan Peluso, chemist; Dina Stewart, and Catherine Maguire, nurses; Pat Peterson, teacher at St. Elizabeth School; Judith Woodson Taylor, wife and mother; Joseph Koyne, husband and father; and Rose Marie Curran, chairperson of the Social Studies Department at St. Mark High School.
Other potential Oblates, all from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, are in the formation stage.
Anyone interested in learning about affilation with St. Gertrude Priory as an Oblate of St. Benedict is invited to write to Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk.
The jubilee day of November 19, 1983, was crowned by another event, the first of its kind in the long history of the Ridgely Benedictine Community. Mother Patricia Gamgort presided over the oblation ceremony of seven persons from northern Delaware. The Community's first Oblates of St. Benedict are the following: Susan Peluso, chemist; Dina Stewart, and Catherine Maguire, nurses; Pat Peterson, teacher at St. Elizabeth School; Judith Woodson Taylor, wife and mother; Joseph Koyne, husband and father; and Rose Marie Curran, chairperson of the Social Studies Department at St. Mark High School.
Other potential Oblates, all from the Eastern Shore of Maryland, are in the formation stage.
Anyone interested in learning about affilation with St. Gertrude Priory as an Oblate of St. Benedict is invited to write to Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk.
August 1982 Oblates-To-Be
from August, 1982 Vol. 1, Number 4 Ridgely Benedictine Notes
Benedictinism is simply Christianity lived to its fullest. And the RULE OF BENEDICT is so practicable that living by its principles has not been limited to monks and nuns. For centuries, the laity and clergy have found the RULE to be a sound guide for enriching their lives.
Ansious to have others share our heritage, Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk invited to "The Plains" anyone she thought might be interested in affiliation with St. Gertrude Priory as Oblates of St. Benedict. Sixteen women and men shared the Eucharist and dinner with the Community on May 27. Afterwards, Fr. Adrian Fuerst invited questions and then expanded upon the meaning and benefits of Benedictine oblation. The participation of the group showed that they sincerely wish to deepen their spiritual lives. Since the advantages of modeling their lives on the RULE and the prospect of being united to a monastic community appealed to them, an organizational meeting for Oblates has been set for September 30[1982].
In the "Noteworthy..." section of same issue:
Srs. Miriam Ruth and Anselma joined other directors of Oblate Programs for a workshop at St. Louis Abbey in Pevely, Missouri....
Benedictinism is simply Christianity lived to its fullest. And the RULE OF BENEDICT is so practicable that living by its principles has not been limited to monks and nuns. For centuries, the laity and clergy have found the RULE to be a sound guide for enriching their lives.
Ansious to have others share our heritage, Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk invited to "The Plains" anyone she thought might be interested in affiliation with St. Gertrude Priory as Oblates of St. Benedict. Sixteen women and men shared the Eucharist and dinner with the Community on May 27. Afterwards, Fr. Adrian Fuerst invited questions and then expanded upon the meaning and benefits of Benedictine oblation. The participation of the group showed that they sincerely wish to deepen their spiritual lives. Since the advantages of modeling their lives on the RULE and the prospect of being united to a monastic community appealed to them, an organizational meeting for Oblates has been set for September 30[1982].
In the "Noteworthy..." section of same issue:
Srs. Miriam Ruth and Anselma joined other directors of Oblate Programs for a workshop at St. Louis Abbey in Pevely, Missouri....
September 1992 - A Decade Ends for Oblate Directress
from Ridgely Benedictine NOTES - September 1992
Often in years past, Sisters had expressed the desirability of having Oblates of St. Benedict affiliated with St. Gertrude's. Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk was always the most ardent proponent of such a program. During Lent of 1982, Sr. Patricia supported and encouraged her in inviting persons who might be interested in the idea. Sixteen women and men responded by joining the Sisters for Mass and dinner on May 27 of that year. Rev. Adrian Fuerst, O.S.B. of St. Meinrad Archabbey, then discussed with them the meaning and advantages of Benedictine oblation. A year and a half later, seven persons made their commitment. Nearly every year since then, there has been a commitment ceremony for new Oblates.
During the first decade, Sr. Miriam Ruth directed the program. Sr. Anselma Biskach has assisted, especially by her moral support and by chauferring. Srs. Mary Joseph Doughtery, Marie Consolata Billingsley, and Mary Louise Robino have given invaluable help in meetings held in the Wilmington area. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek became co-directress and is now in charge of the program.
Although Sr. Miriam Ruth coordinated most of the monthly sessions, she often invited guest speakers, especially for days of recollection. Frequently, too, Sr. Patricia or some other member of the community led a discussion on the Liturgy of the Hours or on some aspect of the RULE and monastic life. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann, as assistant, had addressed the group. Hence, there was nothing unusual on the first Sunday of May when the latter chaired the session. The theme and the outcome were a surprise to Sr. Miriam Ruth, however; for it was a farewell and....[note from blog master, "looking for rest of article"]
Often in years past, Sisters had expressed the desirability of having Oblates of St. Benedict affiliated with St. Gertrude's. Sr. Miriam Ruth Wilk was always the most ardent proponent of such a program. During Lent of 1982, Sr. Patricia supported and encouraged her in inviting persons who might be interested in the idea. Sixteen women and men responded by joining the Sisters for Mass and dinner on May 27 of that year. Rev. Adrian Fuerst, O.S.B. of St. Meinrad Archabbey, then discussed with them the meaning and advantages of Benedictine oblation. A year and a half later, seven persons made their commitment. Nearly every year since then, there has been a commitment ceremony for new Oblates.
During the first decade, Sr. Miriam Ruth directed the program. Sr. Anselma Biskach has assisted, especially by her moral support and by chauferring. Srs. Mary Joseph Doughtery, Marie Consolata Billingsley, and Mary Louise Robino have given invaluable help in meetings held in the Wilmington area. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann Gondek became co-directress and is now in charge of the program.
Although Sr. Miriam Ruth coordinated most of the monthly sessions, she often invited guest speakers, especially for days of recollection. Frequently, too, Sr. Patricia or some other member of the community led a discussion on the Liturgy of the Hours or on some aspect of the RULE and monastic life. More recently, Sr. Barbara Ann, as assistant, had addressed the group. Hence, there was nothing unusual on the first Sunday of May when the latter chaired the session. The theme and the outcome were a surprise to Sr. Miriam Ruth, however; for it was a farewell and....[note from blog master, "looking for rest of article"]
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