For those who have been wondering… this is the update received today.Because of uncertainty surrounding the Corona Virus pandemic, the Oblate Retreat scheduled for October 15th through 18th has been cancelled. At this time there is no way to predict when such a gathering will be safe for the Monks and the Oblates. Cancellation now will give each of us a chance to adjust travel plans and schedules and will not keep anyone waiting for information. Program planning already begun for this year will be safely stored for next Fall, when we can be hopeful of a safe experience. The guest houses remain closed and the Monks remain socially distanced in safety. Our prayers for each other, the monastery, and the world remain constant and hopeful.
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The Oblates of Mount Saviour Monastery 
Thanks so much Eva/Perennial Grace for the (disappointing, but fully understandable) “news.”
I pray that you, and the Mount Saviour community, including all Oblates and friends, are remaining healthy and taking strict precautions.
I’m deeply saddened that, although our archbishop allowed Liturgy in the archdiocese beginning June 6, my parish delayed it by a week, and only began June 13th—with very “extreme” precautions to the point of requiring masks while in that the parking lot, which is considered church property. The list of “do’s” and “do not’s” seemed to be 2 pages long. It included the request that everyone over 65, and/or with underlying health issues to PLEASE NOT COME TO MASS!
It’s interesting that I don’t mind a televist with my doctor, but I find resistance to participating in the Liturgy via TV, although I do it. Technology functions well for some things, but simply is inadequate for others. But these are the sacrifices that must be made, which I understand and fully support.
I have a dear friend who is a religious sister in Kansas, who, when I “complained,” simply said that her neighboring parish was shuttered, and parishioners were required by the Dept of Health to self-quarantine because of the verified spread in the parish due to opening too soon.
Well—I look forward to being with everyone when the time is right. In the meanwhile, I will keep all in my prayers, and ask that each do the same. Together—yet apart—we remain under God’s wings, and aided by our father and mother, Saints Benedict and Scholastica.
As Sr. Joan Chittister, OSB, reminds us, “Let nothing go by without being open to being nourished by the inner meaning of that event in life.” The pandemic is one of life’s opportunities to be nourished by it’s inner meaning.
In love and prayer,
Brother Nicholas, Obl.S.B.
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Jane Tretler, a lay person from the Syracuse, NY area here. Have been an oblate since 1990. I am so grateful to be on this listserve and truly appreciate the time and attention of those responsible for this communication.
Blessings and peace to all during this time that is challenging for so many. Hope we can meet again when it is safe to do so. 🙏🏻
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