Lay Dominicans (Lay Fraternities of St. Dominic)

Lay Dominicans are baptised and confirmed Catholics—single or married—who commit themselves to living in faithful adherence to the teachings, doctrine, and moral life of the Catholic Church. They preach the Gospel through their daily lives, professional work, and family responsibilities.

While fully engaged in the world, Lay Dominicans make a lifelong commitment through profession. They dedicate themselves to ongoing formation, regular prayer, study, and active participation in the life of their Dominican community.

This vocation requires a stable and sustained commitment of time, discipline, and spiritual purpose, grounded in fidelity to the teachings and authority of the Catholic Church. It is not suited to those seeking an occasional or informal association, but calls for careful discernment and a genuine readiness to embrace a structured way of life shaped by the Gospel and the charism of the Order of Preachers, founded by Saint Dominic.

A black and white emblem featuring a shield with a cross and fleur-de-lis, a star at the top, and a scroll banner with the words 'Laudare Benedictine Praedicare.'

Lay Dominican Commitment

Prayer

·        The Liturgy of the Hours, at least Morning (Lauds) and Evening (Vespers) daily.

·        The Holy Rosary daily.

·        Frequent Participation in Holy Mass, daily if possible

·        Daily Lectio Divina

·        Regular reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, at least monthly.

 

Ongoing Study

·        Study of Catholic theology and doctrine

·        Regular reading of Sacred Scripture

·        Study the lives and writings of the holy men and women of the Dominican Order

·        Ongoing intellectual formation in the Catholic faith

 

Community Life

·        Regular participation in the liturgical life of a local Dominican church

·        Faithful attendance at the monthly Chapter meeting. The monthly Chapter meeting is a vital element of fraternity life. This vocation is therefore best suited to those who are able to attend consistently.

·        Active involvement in the life and events of the local Dominican community

·        Participation in an annual retreat

·        Attendance at study days and other approved formation courses

 

Apostolate (Preaching)

  • Every Lay Dominican is called to preach the Gospel. Preaching is not limited to words—it is lived through the example of a life shaped by truth, charity, and fidelity to the Church.

  • Through faithful witness in daily life

  • Through professional work and personal relationships

  • Through active engagement with the world

 

Formation Journey:

 

Becoming a Lay Dominican involves a period of formation and discernment:

 

  • Enquirer: You attend a local fraternity as an enquirer for up to one year, allowing time for prayer, reflection, and discernment.

  • Admission: You may then apply to be formally admitted into the fraternity.

  • Temporary Profession: Following further formation, you make a temporary promise to live according to the Rule.

  • Final Profession: After sufficient discernment, you make a lifelong commitment to the Lay Dominican vocation.

 

A Vocation of Commitment

The Lay Dominican vocation is a lifelong commitment to prayer, study, community, and preaching. It is a structured and intentional way of life, lived in the midst of the world, and rooted in fidelity to the Gospel and the teaching of the Catholic Church.

 For more information email: 

catherineattridge@hotmail.com

or

michaelgosullivan@gmail.com