Oblates often tell us that living the Rule of St Benedict is transformative:  it structures life in meaningful ways, adds spiritual direction, and provides a clear path to salvation.  In addition, it provides meaning and dignity in a hostile and dehumanizing place. The Prison Oblate Program offers numerous benefits: community, mutual support, council, and a true sense of belonging.  The aim of is to transform the experience of prison from an individual struggling to do penance, to become a member of a group embracing a common Rule of life, praying and doing penance together.  A prison term is no longer about suffering, but prayer and spiritual growth.  Heinrichus, a former inmate, says emphatically that praying the Divine Office with other Oblates prisoners made his prison life livable.   

Oblates frequently find ministries in prison live their spiritual growth by helping others.  They are prayer leaders, music ministers, organizers of prayer groups, and teacher of the Catholic faith.  Oblates frequently reach out to counsel other Catholics, Christians, or people of no faith.  One particular Oblate is very active in his prison’s hospice, and many help care for the sick in their units.  The Ministry grows because our imprisoned Oblates are widely recognized as having found peace in a hostile environment.