Ecumenical Benedictine Oblate

Please Forgive Me

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:58:00 +0000

I extend my apologies for neglecting this practice of Benedictine Community on the web for so very long. I humbly ask you to forgive me.

So I begin again today. I hope you will re-join me in the Benedictine journey.

Where have I been for so long?

Well it has been a time of transition for me.

I spent some time getting a chronic health issue under control. I do feel much better!

My husband and I downsized our home. It is a relief to be all in the new place.

Last month I discovered that we will be grandparents in June. O Joy!

I have also gone to the monastery for retreats.

And I participate in my local faith community.

I continue to read a section of the Rule of Benedict as a daily practice.

And I meditate on scripture regularly.
The practice of Morning Prayer / Liturgy of the Hours feeds my soul and returns my focus to God.

The Rule of Benedict says in the Prologue that this is "a guide for beginners."

One Benedictine Sister, who has spent over 50 years in the monastery, once gave me a perspective on this. She said, "In following the Rule of Benedict we all stumble and fall. Then we get up and start again. In following the Rule, we are all beginners."

So I invite you to join me in this journey of beginners.

How Important is our Clothing?

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 06:53:00 +0000

How important is our clothing?

This morning I attended a small women’s group at a church. We had been assigned reading from a book of sermons. Tired and stressed, I got up early on Saturday morning, looking forward to a hearing words about faith, God, and mutual encouragement. That did NOT happen.

Instead I sat through nearly an hour of discussion on how important it is to dress well, and keep hair and make-up done. A couple of women tried to steer this conversation toward biblical concepts of not judging people on outward appearance, or about receiving the other regardless of appearance. This was NOT well received. Instead, the conversation reverted to "What Not To Wear,” and held up the benefits of a new $5,000 wardrobe and makeover.

Especially in these difficult economic times, I was dismayed by this focus on good hairdos, and make-up, and judging each other by clothing. Is this what we need church groups to spend time on?

The meeting’s message was clearly that one must dress to some arbitrary standard, or one is not welcome in this group.

As Christians, I hope we welcome people’s hearts, even when they can’t afford a haircut, or highlights. I hope that we encourage people to attend church, and hear about God’s love, regardless of their clothing.

But this meeting raised valid questions. How important is our clothing?

How much energy should we invest in personal appearance?

What is a healthy life balance from God's perspective?

To this end, I offer three brief bible passages for our contemplation.

We also might benefit from reflecting on Rule of Benedict Chapter 55-On the Clothes and Shoes of the Brethren or RB Chapter 4-What are the Instruments of Good Works

28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:28-33 (EVS) (Emphasis mine) Link to Matthew 6

38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ Matthew 25:38-40 (EVS) Link to Matthew 25

…9 likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, 10 but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works. 1Timothy 2:9-10 (EVS) Link to 1Timothy 2

As Soon as He Heard, He Obeyed Me

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 23:00:00 +0000

"As soon as he heard, he obeyed Me" (Ps. 17[18]:45).( Rule of Benedict Chapter 5)

A vowed Benedictine friend told me that one of the benefits of living in a monastery was that she learned the discipline to stop whatever she was doing, and go to prayer.

I am eager to follow Christ. Yet I instinctively delay responding in obedience to the word, or my fellow Christians, or my known responsibilities. Or even to pray.

Sometimes I delay in such mundane issues of daily life that simply must be done. What do I expect to gain by putting off changing the laundry for another 20 minutes? Delaying my response does not benefit me. It does not change anything, other than causing me to wait an extra 20 minutes for the clothes to dry.

And yet I delay my ‘obedience’ to the requests of my family, or my known responsibilities, or to followers of Christ? I find I must consciously stop and think about obedience. Otherwise my knee-jerk response is to ‘put off’ doing that which I already know is right.

An oblate friend of mine defines ‘obedience in marriage’ as ‘listening to each other.’ Yet how often do I try to pretend I have not heard my spouse? Or how often do I intently listen to the needs of my spouse?

I often think of my vowed Benedictine friend when I catch myself wanting to delay my own obedience to some request. I don't have the structural support of the monastery bells. But perhaps this is my opportunity to learn that same discipline… to stop and respond now to God's call in my own life.

Dear Lord, teach me to obey God’s call in my life NOW, rather than later.

Invisible Ministries

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:03:00 +0000

Sunday night I met with a new small group. We started with a prayer, followed by a brief discussion of how each one lives a ‘personal rule of life.’ We specifically discussed the dimensions of ‘piety, study and action’.

Meeting with people whom I do not know, I am impressed anew by the variety of distinct ministry callings, and areas of influence demonstrated in these lives. Their individual ministries range from a focus in a local worshiping community, and creating a safe environment for faith in the work place, to creating opportunities for faith community on the internet.

Our conversations affirmed a truth that I have known, but do not often voice. Each individual is doing something with God, that I cannot do, and that most clergy cannot do. These individuals have circles of influence in the corporate work place, among the retired, and in health care facilities. As a routine part of their lives they are in communities to which others have little or no access.

In their quiet prayer, piety, study, and private conversations, they are gently building up the community of faith. They are welcoming others as Christ, in the people that they meet on a daily basis.

I am encouraged by their daily efforts to be faithful disciples. Their evident determination to both develop a personal rule of life, and to follow God faithfully in their own circle of influence, remind me to think of ways to do this myself.

Thank you God for all those who follow you in places and activities unknown or unseen. Thank you God for prayers, study, and ministries that seem to be invisible. Help each of us to remember that You alone know the results of these quiet actions, prayers and conversations. Encourage and strengthen each one to be a faithful disciple today.

In the Morning...Joy Comes in the Morning

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:00:00 +0000

“In the morning… Joy comes in the morning…” These words greet me from Elizabeth Von Trapp awakening me with song through my IPOD alarm. Morning sun light streams through the last leaves on the trees outside my second story window. I hear the laughter of children crossing the street to school. My dog barks his morning reminder that he is ready to go outside and greet the children.

I am not naturally a morning person. My work keeps me with clients till 7 or 8 PM two or three nights each week. Last night was one of those late work nights. Then my laptop seems to call me to write, or blog, or twitter, or e-mail, while my husband watches the news. I will often get a second wind about 11 PM. If I am not mindful … I suddenly look at the clock on my computer screen and find that I have worked into the small hours of the next day. Those are my excuses…., or habits … to be learned, or re-learned. So today, with my coffee in hand I sit down to search the psalms for references to morning.

I find the words of my morning’s alarm song in Psalm 30:5…

 ”For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. [1] Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.  [1]Or and in his favor is life” Psalm 30:5 (Show me Psalm 30) “but Joy comes in the morning”

I also remember Genesis beginning with God creating morning and evening. Gen. 1:5-8 God gives a rhythm of light and dark for our days. Genesis continues with stories of Abraham “early in the morning.”  ”And Abraham went early in the morning to the place where he had stood before the Lord.” Genesis 19:27 (Show me Genesis 19)

I understand this because Abraham raised sheep. Growing up on a sheep ranch, I learned that sheep move as soon as the sun comes up. So the shepherd must be with the sheep before the sun rises. Otherwise sheep scatter, searching for water and fresh feed. Each ewe goes off in her own direction. So Abraham would go out early.

The question occurs to me… “Is God there, like a shepherd? Is God waiting for me, lest I wander off in my own direction like an old ewe, and end up lost in a bog somewhere?” “Do God’s perspectives in the morning protect my day, just as the shepherd protects the sheep from danger?”

Then in Psalm 5:3 David says “O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you[1] and watch.”  [1]Or I direct my prayer to you. .. Psalm 5:3 (Show me Psalm 5) I ask myself "How and when do I direct my prayer in the morning?"

And again in Psalm 59 I find the call to turn to God in the morning….

 ”But I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress.” Psalm 59:16 (Show me Psalm 59)

And in Psalm 130 I hear “my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning” Psalm 130:6 (Show me Psalm 130) 

And finally ”Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.” Psalm 143:8 (Show me Psalm 143)

All of this reminds me of the balance of life called for in the Rule of Benedict. Rising to greet God with Psalms beginning with Psalm 66:1

”Shout for joy to God, all the earth;  sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise!” and on Sunday with Hymns of Ambrosia (RB 12 and 13) ……

I may not have a precise answer to all my questions. I still need to be mindful of the time every night. But today I celebrate this daily new beginning with “joy in the morning.”

Note: Bible quotes are from the EVS Bible web site.

If you prefer an alternative version here is the Oremus Bible Browser Link

Listen My Child

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:33:00 +0000

'Listen My Child....' says Benedict in the Prologue of the Rule of Benedict.

This morning I have been contemplating mundane issues of home finances. And in the midst of ordinary decisions about what groceries to buy... I hear "Listen my child..."

And so I am reminded, even (or especially...) in these times of financial difficulty for many. I am reminded that God is present. Present even in these daily decisions that are seemingly not spiritual.

Benedict's mind was drenched in the scripture, that scripture simply poured out of him as naturally as breath. We can see it in any copy of the Rule of Benedict that includes reference notes. So he says to us "Listen my child...." and directs each of us to the Psalms, to the Gospels, to the experience of both our elders and our juniors.

Whatever I must put my hand, or my mind to today.... Benedict tells me that I need to 'listen...' for a 'God perspective,' for a 'next best step,' according to these sources of wisdom provided in my life.

And so I pause, just for a moment, to 'Listen....'

I invite you to join me.

Ecumenical Benedictine Oblate Community

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 04:50:00 +0000

I just attended a retreat with my Ecumenical Benedictine Oblate community. About 60 or 70 Oblates met from Friday Evening Prayer through Sunday lunch. This varied group of women and men range in age from 30 to 80. They came from homes in cities and farms, and all kinds of towns in-between… spanning the United States, and overseas.

Our personal faith traditions extend across numerous denominations of Christianity, and 12 Step Spirituality. Yet we find common ground in this community, where the Rule of Benedict pre-dates all these historical divisions. We came to this place where we are each welcome at the table. We are each greeted as Christ, and we endeavor to greet others as Christ.

We are each drawn here for the Rule of Benedict, the community, the prayers, the Psalms, the need for justice. We desire to leave some part of this earth better than we found it. We crave solitude and contemplation. We long for a greater awareness of God in our lives and our world.

We each have a unique story. As we admit the truth about our own journey of faith and the rule, we know that we will be heard, accepted, and encouraged to find our next best step in faith. As we listen to each other’s stories, we are encouraged to think in new ways about old issues. We are encouraged to admit where we need to step-up and grow… in wisdom, commitment, spiritual practice, ordinary service, and forgiveness of both ourselves and others.

In this place I asked deep theological questions, while I was knitting my socks, and washing dishes. My Catholic friend clarified her understanding of Old Testament Theology and how it relates to Christology. We discussed a ‘Communion Paradigm.’ Meanwhile a musician spontaneously took a scrap of newsprint and a magic marker, jotting down a new chant for a fellow oblate. (It was complete with tune, words and chord progressions in moments.) We prayed for each other, for our families and for our world.

There are so few places where it is safe to speak openly about these spiritual realities. There are so few places where our hearts are heard, without comparison or competition.

In this place I saw community organically drawing out the gifts of each person.

In this place I was in awe of God, in ordinary lives.

Remember and Return

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:29:00 +0000

I just spent three days back “home” at my nephew’s wedding. Most of the people present are friends and family with whom I share twenty, thirty, or forty years of history. And some of us know each other’s family stories for four or five generations. I found myself repeatedly surprised by how intensely moving it was to spend this concentrated time of celebration and re-connection. The wonderful celebration was mixed with grief for those no longer present, as well as past opportunities missed.

At the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception we introduced our spouses and our children to one another. We oriented each other with our most recent connections to people and places and work. We ate, and laughed, and danced, and toasted the newlyweds. We evaluated the DJ. We even updated cell phone numbers.

At breakfast my cousin began telling a story referencing a butte and a mountain pass, and I realized that each of us “natives” sitting there at table were able to actively picture the land in our minds eye. We traveled with him across that particular span of some 100 miles of ranch country. Then we mentally toured the area as others shared their own stories. We shared accomplishments, foibles, and struggles. We took turns poking fun at ourselves, and our loved ones. I laughed, and felt like crying all at the same time.

I heard myself sharing one of my favorite Thomas Merton stories. (After some time as a novice in the monastery, Merton asked his novice master “how am I doing?” The novice master answered, ”It is none of your business how you are doing.”)

And at one point I had a few moments to talk with a child, who I had just met, about the USA versus Brazil soccer match. He told me about which position he liked to play in soccer, and how much he wanted to be home in time to watch the next match on ESPN.

As we got up from the table, I wondered if we might even have started a little bit of new history with this newest generation. It all felt like too much, and not enough, at the same time.

As my husband and I drove across three states to our current home, it finally struck me that this weekend had been a concentrated embodiment of both stability and hospitality. For each of us knows the good, and the bad, of each other’s history. We know the places. We know those who have died, and we know what they mean to those present. For each one to make the effort to come and celebrate, and then to trust each other with both the old and the new stories of our lives is no small thing. We shared our hopes, and our grief, and we welcomed the next generation. We trusted that even though some of us may be separated by distance for an undetermined period of time, we still hold each other, and our stories in our hearts.

We will remember and we will return.

Contributing to Community Counsel

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:16:00 +0000

In the third chapter of the Rule, Benedict discusses the need to take counsel with all the members of the community. Having said that all community members are to be heard, Benedict reminds us of how each person is to participate in that conversation.

“In all things, therefore, let all follow the Rule as guide, and let no one be so rash as to deviate from it. Let no one in the monastery follow his own heart’s fancy.” (Chapter 3: Summoning the community for counsel)

We live in a culture that is often both self-centered and impulsive. But in this chapter Benedict waves a cautionary flag about both of those qualities in life. He says take the time for counsel, and consider your approach to the discussion.

In our culture of individuality, we need to pause and think a little about what it means not to “follow his own heart’s fancy.” Our culture might talk in psychological terms about narcissism defined as ‘extreme selfishness, a craving for admiration.’ Or ‘Excessive interest in oneself.’

Benedict is calling us away from that individual focus. He calls us to consider a balance of the needs of the community, rather than my own self-interest. It is not about denying my personal gifts. God gave each member of the community unique gifts. Used properly those gifts will benefit the community. Rather it is about being considerate of the larger community beyond myself.

As we bring our individual contributions to life in community, I think we are protected and guided by four timeless concepts.

The larger community – It brings with it, both the wisdom of experience, and a specific set of needs, unique to this moment in time.
The Gospel- It is our example of Christ in the world, and our call to follow Christ.
The Abbott or Prioress –We must give respect and consideration for those bringing the experience, and bearing the burden, of leadership responsibility.
The Rule of Benedict – It is a timeless guide protecting us from the fluctuations of current fads in all our decisions.

So today I ask a series of questions that seem to apply to most situations.

Are my actions and desires consistent with the guide of the Rule of Benedict?
Are they consistent with the Gospel?
Have I considered whether the timing of my desire is the best?
Am I listening to the wisdom of the experience of the community over time?
Who will benefit from what I bring to the discussion?
Am I speaking and acting in a way that is respectful of the Abbot or Prioress and the years of experience that he or she brings to the conversation?
Am I mindful of the burden of responsibility for the community that comes with a given position of leadership?

Falling Down and Getting Up

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Wed, 06 May 2009 03:00:00 +0000

Am I the only one who is tempted to believe, or pretend, that 'Real Benedictines' don't fall in their attempts to create a prayerful rhythm of life?

Recently I heard a vowed Benedictine speak at a conference. She had more than 50 years of experience living in Benedictine community. You know the kind of person I'm talking about. She radiates hospitality, calm, listening, prayer, and contentment. Yet she stated openly, that in following the rule, she just "falls down and gets back up, and starts again."

Hearing her say this really helped me. Now I'm less discouraged when I stumble over my own efforts to develop a new practice, and find myself flat on my face.

Yet, while I'm lying on the ground, trying to figure out what happened, and how I can get up and begin again, I am still tempted to believe that I am the only one tripping over a new practice.... or a principle, or a value....

Perhaps that is one reason that Benedict tells us to live in community. In those times when I am struggling not to live in a state of 'continual rushing,' it helps me to hear that someone else has struggled too. And they found some insights to make it a manageable struggle.

In community, we can appreciate and celebrate our successes, and our insights about the Benedictine life. And we can tell each other the truth when we're not so sure, or when we fall flat on our faces. As for the getting back up part?... In community we give each other a 'hand-up'. Sometimes a subtle new perspective on God's presence in our lives, can change everything.

I had another one of those subtle, yet life changing moments this weekend.

Thanks to two sentences from an Oblate friend of mine.

I was reminded that, "I am not the shepherd." "I am the sheep."

It is a simple, seemingly obvious observation about the Gospel reading.

Yet, that conscious shift in perspective makes all the difference.

So today I ask you, "What is your latest awareness of Benedictine insight?"

Or "What haven't you figured out yet?"

"Who provides community support for you in this?"

"Where do you find your community?"

Blessings,

Deanne

Conversation about Oblate Community

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 16:00:00 +0000

This last week my fellow Oblates amazed and encouraged me with a flurry of e-mails, several comments here, and some poll responses. You Oblates have been generous, positive, honest, so open, and deeply thoughtful. I value your insights and experience about building Ecumenical Benedictine Oblate community. Your personal interests and preferences give worthwhile perspective. You also offered invaluable knowledge about the technical and learning-style sides of this experiment.

Thank You!!!

There will be lots more follow-up work to do on all those comments and suggestions.

For today I begin here with 'a first tickler question.' This is for any and all who want to comment.

"What elements do you think are necessary to positive Ecumenical Benedictine community?"

Benedictus/ Song of Zachariah

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:05:00 +0000

16
The Song of Zechariah
Benedictus Dominus Deus

Luke 1: 68-79
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; *
he has come to his people and set them free.

He has raised up for us a mighty savior, *
born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets
he promised of old,
that he would save us from our enemies,*
from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers *
and to remember his holy covenant.

This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham,*
to set us free from the hands of our enemies,

Free to worship him without fear, *
holy and righteous in his sight
all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, *
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,
To give his people knowledge of salvation *
by the forgiveness of their sins.

In the tender compassion of our God *
the dawn from on high shall break upon us,

To shine on those who dwell in darkness
and the shadow of death, *
and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

(The Book of Common Prayer
Copyright The Episcopal Church USA)

About the Tradition of the Benedictus

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 09:00:00 +0000

The Benedictus, taken from Luke 1:68-79, is Zachariah’s prayer of praise at the arrival of his child. (Zachariah is the father of John the Baptist.)

Traditionally Benedictines pray this every day in Morning Prayer (or Lauds). In some mysterious way, praying Zachariah's prayer allows people to join in the praise, and the commitments, between God and those who prepared the way for Jesus.

This daily reminder is part of the rhythm of prayer and work in Benedictine monastic life. Praying the Benedictus calls Benedictine souls to timeless principles of faith. It connects each one of us to Benedictine community around the world, and through out the past 1500 years.

In praying the Benedictus, I know that I am traveling with others who have been called to this path for more than 1500 years. Whether I chant, or simply recite the Benedictus, I know that I am in community, even when I pray all by myself.

My Own Experience of the Benedictus . . . . (or Song of Zachariah)

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:20:00 +0000

Early one Sunday morning, I found myself, a mid-western wife, with three Benedictine sisters and a priest. We were in a small monastery chapel, praying a Morning Prayer service, which included the Benedictus (or Song of Zachariah). The realization that I made in those moments has reshaped my life.

I am filled with gratitude for that ordinary Sunday morning. That morning I realized that the Benedictus is not only a beautiful ancient prayer of faithful praise. It has become my own prayerful call to live in the community of faith. This is a call shared by the larger Benedictine community. It describes faith in God as faith has been expressed since before the birth of Christ.

The words of the Benedictus, and the act of praying them, continually call me back to community, and to the Rule of Benedict. It serves both as my call to remember, and as my call to actively choose my life of faith, today.

---------------------------------------

One Version of the Benedictus

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:18:00 +0000

Benedictus

"Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,

because he has come and redeemed his people.

He has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of his servant David,

as he said through his holy prophets of long ago,

salvation from our enemies

and from the hand of all who hate us----

to show mercy to our fathers

and to remember his holy covenant,

the oath he swore to our father Abraham:

to rescue us from the hand of our enemies,

and to enable us to serve him without fear

in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High;

for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him,

to give his people the knowledge of salvation

through the forgiveness of their sins,

because of the tender mercy of our God,

by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven

to shine on those living in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the path of peace."

Glory be to our Creator

To our Redeemer Jesus Christ

And to the Spirit of Life,

who dwells in our midst now and forever. Amen

(Luke 1:68-79 quoted from NIV-UK)

Easter Morning.

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 18:32:00 +0000

He is risen!

He is alive!

Alleluia!

Welcome the Easter Season of celebration with songs and rejoicing.

Public Vs. Private, Or "Both And" in Benedictine Community

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 17:25:00 +0000

John commented on the question of 'public or private blog'. He called us to 'the greater good' that comes from providing public access to the Benedictine resources on this particular blog.

(For more detail you can read his comment below "Testing the Blog Concept for Benedictine Community.") Thanks for weighing in John!

John's thoughtful comment reminded me of the important concept of "Both And." One place that I see this in the Rule of Benedict is in reference to food. (See the Side Bar Link to RB Organized by Chapter and then select Chapter 39.)

The monastery is called to practice stewardship, and to offer hospitality.

So the rule directs them to provide two cooked dishes at each table. 'Both And.' No banquet spread is laid out, but monks and guests are offered a choice.

Perhaps that concept applies to blogs and nurturing Benedictine Community as well. It strikes me that Benedict never encouraged a 'one size fits all' approach.

I started out hoping that it might be possible to create something that a few Oblates could use for conversation in the months between our oblate retreats.

I am surprised by the number of blog visitors who aren't from my own oblate community. This possibility did not occur to me when I began testing the technology.

Yet that larger community interest does not erase the need for Oblates to communicate in a safe place. Not all communication is appropriate in public. And the basic set up of the technology is easier and faster than I expected. This opens the possibility of creating more than one blog space.

So what would be helpful to nurture both the larger Benedictine Community, and provide confidential space for deepening Oblate community?

The main advantages that I see in blogs are that we can share the same conversations, and ideas, without having to be either in the same geographic location, or on the same time schedule. This can serve all and broaden our sense of connectedness. In addition any blog can be limited to allow access by a prescribed list of participants. This can create a private space and serve to deepen community.

Here we need to be sensitive to the balance of providing confidentiality, which feeds, and is essential to deep community connections; while we maintain openness and inclusiveness, which broadens and refreshes community.

The need for different kinds of communication leads me to consider more than one type of blog. A blog (or blogs) could be designed for a specifically defined purpose, such as small group study, prayer for care and concern requests,

Lectio Divina, or conversations about a specific Benedictine value.

This might be a blog that we each "sign-up for." In this type of blog limited access allows participants to know exactly who can see their entries. We are on the list and we have a copy of the list.

A "sign-up blog" could be structured for participation over a set period of time.

Or could be developed as an ongoing reference to a given topic of interest left in play for a longer term. (Which of these do you think would be beneficial? And why?)

Now the challenge becomes focus and stewardship. Where do we begin?

My time probably allows me to maintain this blog, plus setting up one or two "sign-up blogs" in the next few months.

The Rule calls for counsel in Chapter 3.

It is written, "Do everything with counsel, and you will not repent when you have done it" (Eccles. 32:24)..

So I invite your counsel.

What is your response to this whole thought process?
Which options do you think are most important to you, as we begin?
How would you most like to participate?
What two topics / ideas seem to call to you?
What discussions are you longing to have?
How are you thirsting to pray in community?
When/How do you most want to connect with other Benedictine Oblates?
What is most essential to you?
What do you think (or feel) about any of the suggestions above?

I am eager to hear which options and/or questions energize your hopes for participation in Benedictine Community.

Testing the Blog Concept for Benedictine Community

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:48:00 +0000

So you were invited to "Test the Blog Concept" with me. Thank you for looking at this site. I hope that we share an interest in Benedictine Community. Living some distance from the monastery, I find it difficult to stay in touch with others who share my Benedictine intentions.

How do you think we might encourage each other?

Are you interested in discussing the Rule?

If so, then we might read selections from Joan Chittister's web site. The link is listed under "Some Links of Interest to Benedictines" in the left column of this blog.

I hope that we find a way to encourage one another in our daily ordinary lives. I also hope that you will share your hopes about using this blog for connection, discussion, study, or prayer.

About confidentiality and privacy. Even though I can't find this site without the exact URL link, it is currently functionally open to anyone.

The option exists to limit access to "up to 100 readers" and "100 authors" to make a private blog for a small reflection, prayer, or study group. I welcome your comments on private verses public.

So explore, comment, subscribe, follow...and tell me what you think.

Peace and Blessings,

Deanne Gibbs-Brown, Oblate S.B.

Lent 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Deanne, Obl. S.B.) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:15:00 +0000

Ash Wednesday seemed to arrive the day after New Year's Day. It's arrival called me back to more regular prayer of the daily hours. Along with reading the assigned lectionary readings.

Somehow praying Lauds or Morning Prayer draws out an immediate sense of connection to the community of faith worldwide. I am reminded that others are stopping to pray in places around the world. Some pray in groups, others in individual prayer. Yet we are all part of this larger community of faith as we pray the hours. This community reaches back over the centuries of history. This community will reach forward beyond our own generation.

In reading (or praying) the Psalm or Gospel assigned for the day, I am challenged by ideas I did not choose or even expect. Yet God speaks to me. God calls me to consider concepts and experiences of faith outside my own. In the Psalms I find the emotions of the faithful through the ages. I am often comforted by the familiar feelings, challenged to consider those feelings outside my current experience, and called to more joy. I am reminded that this life is not 'all about me.' Or in these times, not about my current worries. Yet, I am reminded how much God loves and cares for me, and for the larger community.

Dear God, help me to use this Lenten Season to draw into your presence daily, even repeatedly each day. Help me learn to be more consciously aware of God's loving presence, by Easter than I was on Ash Wednesday.