Lay associates

"My journey into the faith began when I was received into the Roman Catholic Church. It continues now as I begin to discover the Benedictine way with others who are exploring the oblate life with me. Although there are times when it is difficult, it is a life enhancing experience. And knowing that we have the prayers and love of the Sisters at Hyning is immensely encouraging. To those who might be wondering whether to join us I would simply say: 'Come and see.' "

Frances Dawbarn

Why I chose the 'Oblate journey'.

"All my adult life I have happily concentrated on being a good and diligent Martha as a wife, mother and teacher. Now that I am older I recognise that I need a better balance in my spiritual life.

I want to be a Martha and a Mary, spending more time sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to Him. I believe that being an Oblate will provide the support, structure and discipline I need to acheive this goal."

Maureen Calnan

"Having visited the Sisters at Hyning on a number of occasions and been to Retreats conducted by them, we were particularly attracted by the spirituality of the Bernardines. This is based on the Rule of St Benedict and the writings of the Cistercian Fathers and Mothers.

We approached the Sisters to see if it would be possible to form some attachment to the Community whilst living outside the monastery. We now visit Hyning on a regular basis and under the guidance of the Sisters are sharing in their charism by prayer and spiritual reading.

Andrew Markham, Jeff Hirst

"I became an Oblate (here at Hyning Monastery) in December 2009. As a retired Anglican priest I feel that I am at the beginning of a new and exciting journey in my Christian discipleship in Benedictine monasticism. 'There is neither Jew nor Greek, circumcised nor uncircumcised', (Presbyterian, United Reformed, Episcopalian, Roman Catholic, Methodist, nor Anglican.) All are truly one in Christ Jesus."

Rev. Terry Middleditch