Oblate Formation 
Posts concerning Oblate and Novice formation. These include articles which are also applicable to most Christians, whether Oblate or not. Additional articles on instruction of various parts of the Rule can be found under that category.
The Annunciation:The Freedom of Religion
. . . She was planned for a role in the drama of redemption by God, as a child is planned for a musical career by his physical parents, but it was not fulfilled until this moment. The Holy Trinity never possesses a creature without the consent of His will. When, therefore, Mary had heard how… Read More ›
What Is Temptation
What is Temptation? A seminary teacher of mine once defined temptation quite plainly and succinctly: “Temptation is the work of the devil to drag you to Hell!” Indeed, that is quite plain. Of course he went on to give us more academic definitions, but he didn’t want us to miss the fact that when battling temptation we… Read More ›
Dante’s biggest fans? The ‘poet of popes’ and his legacy at the Vatican
Rome, Italy, Mar 20, 2015 / 02:06 am (CNA/EWTN News).- With this year marking the 750th anniversary of Dante Alighieri’s birth, the Vatican is taking a closer look the author of the Italian masterpiece, the Divine Comedy, and his impact upon the popes of the 20th century. “Dante is a universal poet for all people… Read More ›
Postings to Resume
Due to unavoidable circumstances the website has had no new postings for about a month. With this post that will change and postings will resume again today, March 20th. The Oblate newsletter has been posted for March and April and is a special “Divine Mercy Edition.” While much of what is in it is available… Read More ›
Religion and morality are indispensable supports
Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men & citizens. The mere Politician, equally with the pious… Read More ›
The Ladder of Divine Ascent
John Climacus became famous . . . through his work, entitled The Climax, in the West known as the Ladder of Divine Ascent (PG 88, 632-1164). Composed at the insistent request of the hegumen of the neighbouring Monastery of Raithu in Sinai, the Ladder is a complete treatise of spiritual life in which John describes the monk’s… Read More ›
The Creed of Benjamin Franklin
“Here is my Creed. I believe in one God, the Creator of the Universe. That He governs it by His Providence. That He ought to be worshipped. “That the most acceptable service we render to him is in doing good to his other children. That the soul of man is immortal, and will be treated… Read More ›
Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
1. “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near” (Is 55,6). These words from the second part of the Book of Isaiah ring out on this Sunday that ends the Christmas season. They are an invitation to go more deeply into the meaning for us of today’s Feast,… Read More ›
19 Spiritual Resolution Ideas for the New Year
CNA: So you’ve vowed to up your intake of kale and have signed up for yoga to kick off the New Year. But has your spiritual life been part of your New Year’s resolutions? Here are a few ideas of small, practical steps you can take to get spiritually stronger in 2015. 1. Daily Mass…. Read More ›
Five Essentials for Discovering and Living God’s Will
This is part of a larger article on the Intergrated Catholic Life site written by Deacon Michael Bickerstaff. Let’s face it—not all of us have a prophet like Nathan living in our home and we are not likely to be visited by an Archangel. So how are we to discover God’s plan for us? I… Read More ›