___St. Bernard of Clairvaux Oratory
As a general term, Oratory signifies a place of prayer, but technically it means a structure other than a parish church, set aside for prayer and the celebration of the various Services. Oratories seem to have originated from the chapels erected over the tombs of the early martyrs where the faithful resorted to pray, and also from the necessity of having a place of worship for the people in country districts when churches proper were restricted to cathedral cities. We also find early mention of private oratories for the celebration of the Divine services by bishops, and later of oratories attached to convents and to the residences of nobles.
Our own Oratory, named after one of the most remarkable man of God, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, operates in the Council Bluffs. Services are held here (or sometimes elsewhere, according to needs, activities and attendance) the first Sunday of each month at 12 PM.
The greatest principle in our Oratory is that we are attached to each other by the bond of understanding and common purpose. Whether it is through the singing of hymns, prayer, bible studies, meditation, healing, outdoor activities, the celebration of the Eucharist or the preservation of honest dialogue between brethren, servanthood and worship are enhanced - and even made possible – by the love we share for each other. All are welcome and are honored as bearers of God's image because here we define being "pastoral" as simply being the presence of Jesus Christ in any situation. For more information, personal and/or family needs and directions, please contact our pastor, Br. Symeon.
May God bless you richly as we are looking forward to serving you.
As a general term, Oratory signifies a place of prayer, but technically it means a structure other than a parish church, set aside for prayer and the celebration of the various Services. Oratories seem to have originated from the chapels erected over the tombs of the early martyrs where the faithful resorted to pray, and also from the necessity of having a place of worship for the people in country districts when churches proper were restricted to cathedral cities. We also find early mention of private oratories for the celebration of the Divine services by bishops, and later of oratories attached to convents and to the residences of nobles.
Our own Oratory, named after one of the most remarkable man of God, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, operates in the Council Bluffs. Services are held here (or sometimes elsewhere, according to needs, activities and attendance) the first Sunday of each month at 12 PM.
The greatest principle in our Oratory is that we are attached to each other by the bond of understanding and common purpose. Whether it is through the singing of hymns, prayer, bible studies, meditation, healing, outdoor activities, the celebration of the Eucharist or the preservation of honest dialogue between brethren, servanthood and worship are enhanced - and even made possible – by the love we share for each other. All are welcome and are honored as bearers of God's image because here we define being "pastoral" as simply being the presence of Jesus Christ in any situation. For more information, personal and/or family needs and directions, please contact our pastor, Br. Symeon.
May God bless you richly as we are looking forward to serving you.
