Main Stream: Dominicans

The charism of Dominican Sisters is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ through prayer, study, community life, and ministry, bringing truth, love, and justice to the world. Their life flows from the Dominican motto to praise, to bless, to preach, which expresses their mission of proclaiming the Word of God in diverse contexts — in schools, parishes, retreat centers, healthcare, social justice work, and other ministries. Dominican life integrates contemplative prayer with apostolic activity, reflecting St. Dominic’s vision of sisters who foster the Gospel through both contemplation and action.

The Dominican Sisters trace their origin to St. Dominic de Guzmán (1170–1221), who founded the Order of Preachers in 1216 with a mission to preach and teach effectively throughout the Church. From the earliest years, women religious joined this mission; the first Dominican women’s communities began at Prouilhe, France, gathering women to a life of prayer and mission that supported the preaching work of the friars. Over centuries, Dominican Sisters have formed numerous distinct congregations around the world — each with its own foundation date and ministry focus — but all united in the Dominican charism of prayer, study, community, and preaching.

provincialhouse@sistersop.com