If you are considering becoming an oblate, or simply want some advice for spiritual growth in daily secular life, this book is the best I have come across. It explains in a clear and easy-to-read manner the history of the Benedictine Order and the tradition of Benedictine Oblates; the virtues a Benedictine Oblate should cultivate; and how to live as an Oblate in daily life. It also has a wealth of links to extra resources. The book itself is wonderfully made, the cover is imitation leather and feels like that which it is imitating (it doesn't look or feel plastic as some imitation leathers do). It really is a treasure.

How to be an Oblate! The ecumenical group of essayists who produced this ‘manual’ on Benedictine oblation provide a very helpful background to this rapidly growing form of monastic observance within the world and outside the monastery. The historical outline of the development of oblation, contributions on the organisation, spiritual formation and possible future progress of the oblate life, all add to the importance of this book. Clearly the guidance of Abbot Primate Notker Wolf has been crucial in recent years, especially as he was the prime mover of the first Benedictine Oblates World Congress in 2005. Expect great things in the future.