Main Stream: Dominicans

The Dominican charism is fundamentally the proclamation of the Truth of Christ for the salvation of souls, summarized in the phrase Veritas. Dominican women participate in this mission through a life rooted in contemplation that overflows into preaching, whether through hidden intercessory prayer (nuns) or active apostolic service (sisters). Their life integrates study, liturgical prayer, community life, and apostolic witness, so that what is received in prayer and reflection may be shared for the good of the Church. Even cloistered Dominican nuns “preach” through their prayer, sacrifice, and fidelity, supporting the preaching mission of the whole Order.

The Order of Preachers was founded in 1216 by St. Dominic de Guzmán and formally approved by Pope Honorius III to respond to doctrinal confusion through preaching grounded in truth and holiness of life. Almost immediately, women were drawn to Dominic’s vision, and in 1206—even before the formal approval of the Order—he founded the monastery of Prouilhe in France, considered the first Dominican women’s community. Dominican nuns were thus present from the very beginning, forming the contemplative heart of the Order. Over time, numerous apostolic congregations of Dominican sisters emerged, especially from the 15th century onward, dedicated to education, healthcare, catechesis, and social service. Today, Dominican women are present worldwide, united by a common spiritual heritage centered on truth, contemplation, and preaching.

✉️ dominicansisterskenya@gmail.com Location: Nairobi, Kenya