An Introduction to A Dominican Vocation

An Introduction to a Dominican Vocation

Who are the Dominican Friars?
The friars are members of the Order of Preachers, AKA "The Dominicans" and we are members of the Western Dominican Province.  There are many provinces throughout the world, which together comprise the Order.  The Order of Preachers was founded in 1216 by St. Dominic de Guzman in response to a then desperate need for informed preaching. Against a heresy which denied the dignity of our humanity, St. Dominic trained a group of preachers who would serve the Church in its affirmation of the world as the place where Christ is discovered. He adapted the structure monasticism so that his Friars, vowed to poverty, chastity, and obedience, were nevertheless free to move wherever their preaching was needed.  The Dominicans enjoy both contemplation and activity, apostolic and monastic traditions.  Dominic fostered the discipline of study, so that what was preached would he part of the Church's sustained reflection on the mystery of Christ. And he began a tradition of spirituality that is rooted in community life, liturgical and common prayer, and personal meditation -- a spirituality which is meant to bear the fruit of an active apostolate.

And bear fruit it has: in the centuries since its origin, the Order has numbered among its members theologians, mystics, Doctors of the Church, workers among the poor, popes, saints and innumerable men and women who have left less tangible traces of their work. What was new with St. Dominic has continued to call forth new members, with new hopes to address new needs.

We are the ORDER OF PREACHERS
We must preach that Jesus Christ is Lord and Brother.
This is our mission and duty. This is our special vocation.

What do friars of the Western Province do?

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