Tim Oberholzer
Tim Oberholzer is Executive Director of the Center for Benedictine Life. In addition to managing the operations of the CBL, Tim facilitates in-person retreats and on-line programs. Tim also accompanies others as a spiritual director.
Tim spent five and a half years as a Trappist monk at New Melleray Abbey in Peosta, Iowa. Deep prayer and reflection led him to leave the community prior to making solemn profession. He moved to Idaho to be closer to his parents, discovering the Monastery of St. Gertrude through a job posting for the innkeeper position at the Inn at St. Gertrude.
Tim earned a business degree from the University of Notre Dame, studied philosophy and theology at the University of St. Thomas, and completed the Stewards of the Mystery spiritual direction training program.
Tim is a widower remarried, a committed runner, and an avid reader.
Events with Tim Oberholzer
Diffusions - Playing with Words: Benedict’s Little Rule for BeginnersFebruary 17, 2026
St. Benedict’s “little rule written for beginners” invites us to grow in virtue through intentional living in the ordinariness of life. The text contains numerous themes to inspire and direct individuals and communities in the way of perfection. During these Zoom sessions, we will ponder the Rule of St. Benedict by “playing” with recurring words and themes. Each month we will examine Benedict’s weaving of a different word or theme through the Rule to gain an understanding of his intention and our application. Examples include: time, love, work, good, life, community, care, evil, fear, guest, just/justice, prayer, and discipline. Whether…
Diffusions :: Two Dogs And A ParrotMarch 12 - 26, 2026
“This is a book about the role of animal companions in the development of our own spiritual lives. It is written for those who have pets and already understand that. It is also written for those who do not have pets and wonder why so many people do. It is a book about reestablishing the human-animal relationships Creation meant us to have.” — From the Introduction of Two Dogs And A Parrot This short, three-week book discussion will explore Joan Chittister’s book Two Dogs And A Parrot: What Our Animal Friends Can Teach Us About Life. In this weekly journey, our…