Internationally, Oblates are part of a global community, directed today by Laurence Freeman, OSB. Oblates are also part of smaller communities spread out across different nations. Some of our Oblates are fortunate to live close enough to each other to come together monthly, for prayer and mutual support. These regular Oblate gatherings are called local cell meetings. However, most Oblates around the world are spread throughout their countries, and are more or less solitary.
Members of the Oblate community are reaching out to create stronger ties of community among those of us who are solitary, in ways are that include fledgling local cells, an annual Oblate retreat, and the powerful instrument of the digital world.