For Oblates & Those Discerning
Books, writings, and links gathered along the way — offered freely to any who are seeking.
The foundation of all Benedictine life. Every oblate returns to it again and again.
St. Benedict of Nursia, trans. Timothy Fry, OSB — Liturgical Press
The Liturgical Press edition includes the full Latin text alongside the English translation, with scholarly notes. This is the standard edition used in most Benedictine communities and the one I read during my novice year.
Marilyn Schauble, OSB & Barbara Wojciak, OSB — Liturgical Press
A more accessible rendering for those coming to the Rule for the first time. Useful alongside a more literal translation.
Writings specifically for oblates — those living the Benedictine charism in the world.
Michael Casey, OCSO — Paraclete Press
Casey writes with rare clarity about what it means to live the Benedictine way outside the monastery walls. One of the most honest and searching books I have encountered on the subject.
Dwight Longenecker — Our Sunday Visitor
A practical companion for the oblate journey — grounded, readable, and honest about the difficulties of living the Rule in ordinary life.
Joan Chittister, OSB — HarperOne
Chapter by chapter through the Rule, with contemporary reflection. Chittister's voice is prophetic and warm. A good companion for lectio divina on the Rule.
The Benedictine tradition of sacred reading and contemplative prayer.
M. Basil Pennington, OCSO — Crossroad
A gentle and thorough introduction to the ancient practice of sacred reading. Pennington was one of the great teachers of contemplative prayer in the twentieth century.
Anonymous (14th century), ed. William Johnston — Image Books
Not Benedictine in origin, but deeply consonant with the contemplative spirit of the Rule. A challenging and rewarding text for anyone serious about prayer.
Cynthia Bourgeault — Cowley Publications
The clearest modern guide to centering prayer I have found. Bourgeault situates the practice within the broader Christian contemplative tradition with great care.
Broader reading on the monastic tradition and its meaning for the Church.
Kathleen Norris — Riverhead Books
A poet's account of her time as an oblate and her extended stays at a Benedictine monastery. One of the most beautiful books written about monastic life from the outside. I return to it often.
Thomas Merton — Harcourt
Merton's autobiography and the book that introduced countless readers to the contemplative life. Not Benedictine — Merton was Cistercian — but essential reading for anyone drawn to the monastery.
Columba Stewart, OSB — Liturgical Press
A scholarly but accessible history of the Benedictine tradition from its origins to the present. Excellent context for understanding what you are entering when you become an oblate.
Links and resources for continuing the journey.
The professional organization for Benedictine scholars and oblates in North America. Their publications and conferences are a valuable resource.
A directory of Benedictine monasteries worldwide, with resources on the Rule, oblate programs, and the broader Benedictine family.
The full Divine Office in English, updated daily. An invaluable companion for oblates praying the Hours outside the monastery.
"Do not be daunted immediately by fear and run away from the road that leads to salvation. It is bound to be narrow at the outset."