Born in Spain in 1170, Dominic was educated in the arts and theology, ordained a priest, and served as a canon at the cathedral in Osma. While traveling through southern France with his bishop, he encountered the Albigensians, whose teachings rejected the Incarnation and the sacraments. Disturbed by both the spread of this heresy and the ineffective preaching of the time, Dominic embraced a different approach.

Commissioned to preach against the error, Dominic and his companions lived simply, embracing poverty, prayer, and a contemplative way of life. Their lifestyle stood in sharp contrast to other preachers who relied on comfort and status rather than witness. Dominic believed that preaching the Gospel required credibility born of prayerful living.

In 1206, recognizing the need for education and safe refuge, Dominic founded a convent in Prouille for women committed to the Catholic faith. This community became the first Dominican house. In 1215, Dominic received approval to establish a new religious order dedicated to preaching and study. Officially confirmed in 1216, the group became known as the Order of Preachers, emphasizing both rigorous education and active ministry. A year later, Pope Honorius III entrusted Dominic with the title “Master of the Sacred Palace,” a role held by Dominicans ever since.

The Dominican motto, “contemplata aliis tradere” - to hand on to others what has been contemplated - captures Dominic’s vision. His preaching flowed from deep prayer, study, and silence. As catechists, we share this call to be contemplative activists, rooted in God’s presence before serving others.

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• How do prayer and silence shape your ministry?
• In what ways do you help learners move from contemplation to action?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/