The Blessed Virgin Mary plays an important role in salvation history. She gave birth to the Savior of the world, and because she was so closely united to Jesus in his life and death, she was also given the privilege of sharing in Christ’s triumph over Satan. In this, she becomes an example to all Christians, reminding […]
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The sign of the cross has been a part of the Church’s tradition for nearly 2000 years. Constantly depicted in film and art, it has become one of the most recognizable Christian acts of faith worldwide. But that was not always the case. In the days of the Roman Empire, crucifixion was a punishment reserved for the worst […]
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Saint Dominic de Guzman died on August 6 in 1221, after arriving at the convent of San Niccolò nelle Vigne, sick with a fever. After making his confession and being made to rest, Dominic exhorted the friars with his final words, to “have charity for one another, to guard humility, and to make a treasure […]
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Taking a vacation during the summer holidays can be difficult. Long lines at the airport and more cars on the road are often a cause of frustration. But it can all be worth it when you realize that rest and recreation can help improve your spiritual life. So whether you’re planning a vacation or a […]
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The Priory of Saint Albert the Great, the Western Dominican Province’s House of Studies, has a history unlike any other. The Priory sits on what was once known as Rose Lawn Park. In the early 1900s the estate was purchased by Raymond and Winifred Perry, who later built Brookhurst Mansion. Eventually the property passed on to […]
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Priestly ordination is often seen as the climax of one’s life as a Dominican friar. But actually it’s the profession of solemn vows which unites a man to the Order of Preachers until death. For many people it’s easier to understand when explained in terms of a marital relationship. The novitiate (first year of formation) is […]
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Beginning on the fifth Sunday of Lent (formerly known as Judica Sunday after the first words of the introit “Judge me, O Lord”) and throughout passiontide, a number of churches veil all statues, images and crosses in purple cloth. Many theories exist as to the historical origins of this practice. During the ninth century in […]
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Every year the novices of the Province visit each of our communities (except the one in Alaska, due to time and resources). These visits are mostly divided up into two trips – a northern tour and a southern tour. The primary purpose of these tours is to help us discern if God is calling us […]
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As itinerant preachers, Dominicans are constantly on the go, traveling from place to place in order to proclaim the Gospel for the salvation of souls. After a certain number of years, every friar will be assigned to a ministry in a new place, based on the needs of the community and the particular gifts he […]
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Lent is just around the corner, and as we all know, fasting for 40 days is not easy. In order to make the most out of this holy season, one needs to get ready ahead of time. The first way to do this is by preparing ourselves physically. We can start by cleaning out the […]
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