Vocation Information

Reflections on the Glenmary Oath

Focus: Commitment to Obedience

I have woven together words on this topic from our Oath (in red) with quotes from individual Glenmarians (bulleted) and some commentary to tie it all together. The entire text of the Glenmary Oath is in the sidebar to the right. —Father Steve Pawelk, Vocation Director

Here are how some Glenmarians experience the evangelical counsel of obedience:

• “Obedience seems to be a forgotten virtue. When confronted with a command I feel I have a right to make a representation of my opinion. But I would readily submit my will to legitimate authority.” (Father Dave Glockner)

• “Obedience is a protection against excessive pride, selfishness, arrogance.” (Father Joe Dean)
“Obedience asks me to subject my will and final say to the wisdom of another. It involves a tremendous amount of trust.” (Brother Jack Henn)

To select additional Oath reflections

Commitment to rural missionary life
Commitment to the evangelical counsel of poverty
Commitment to the evangelical counsel of chastity (celibacy)
Commitment to the evancelical counsel of prayer
Commitment to fraternity
Return to Oath overview