Oblation: Meditations on St. Benedict's Rule

by Rachel M. Srubas

Thousands of spiritual seekers are discovering and re-discovering the wisdom of Saint Benedict, embracing the balanced, Christ-centered, and practical approach to daily living that he espoused for his monks almost 1500 years ago in Europe. By some estimates, Benedictine oblates outnumber vowed monks and nuns by ten-to-one. Rachel Srubas writes these uplifting, thought-provoking reflections out of her own profound experiences of learning the Rule, and implementing it in the midst of a "secular" life. She is attentive to the power of words, and writes like a poet. Each reflection is prefaced by an excerpt from one of the Rule's seventy-three chapters, and explores the Benedictine themes of humility, prayer, community, compassion, justice, hospitality, moderation, and reverance. Srubas also offers insights for those interested in incorporating into their prayer lives the Benedictine practice of lectio divina (sacred reading) and related contemplative writing disciplines. Personal, accessible, and deeply relevant, the prayers offered here invite readers to make their own thoughtful reflections on the timeless principles found in Benedict's Rule and how they may be applied in concrete ways in everyday life.

Genres: Poetry, Christianity, Spirituality

84 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2006

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was delightfully surprised by this one. Totally forget now how I found it, but am so glad that I did.

[Bonnie Westmark · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Benedictine Oblate at St. Placid Priory in Lacey, Washington, I felt I must read this book. What a wonderful surprise to find in written in poetry. My attempts to live according to Benedictine values bring me much joy. This beautiful book was soothing to my soul, like a walk in the woods on a winter day. I savored each mediation. Perfect for lectio and contemplative prayer, or for snuggling up by the fire with a cup of chai tea, almond biscotti, and my snoring pug under the blankets beside me.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a surprising and delightful find! Rachel Srubas is an ordained Presbyterian minister living in Arizona. She is also an oblate of a monastery in Tucson. Each of the meditations/poems is based on a small passage from the Rule of St. Benedict. They are simple, direct, and searingly honest. They have become great pieces for my own fledgling lectio divina practice.

[Joy · Rating 2 out of 5]

good

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I read part of St Benedict's Rule daily I will read this beautiful book of poetry often. Rachel Saunas is a Presents than pastor and Oblate.

[Luci · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe 2.5? Not a favorite personally because most of the poems/reflections didn't resonate with me. They were a bit hit and miss, but I did really enjoy some of them.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summary: Christian prayers inspired by St. Benedict's Rule

Review: I thought that this was interesting because the author is actually a female Presbyterian minister, writing on the Catholic monastic rule of St. Benedict, but her perspective was a good one, as far as I can tell, and I appreciated her prayerful insights.