Become an Associate

Who and what are Dominican Associates?

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Dominican Associates are companions to the Dominican Sisters of Peace in their prayer life, study and ministries. Associates are Christian women and men who are called to live the Dominican way of life – which we sometimes express with the phrase: to praise, to bless, to preach. This motto describes the Dominican approach to life. We praise God for the gift of life in all of its diversity, recognizing that God is the source of all good. We strive to be a blessing to others, offering an affirming presence in a world in need of peace. And we communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ, preaching through word and action. Associates make a commitment to live a life of prayer, study, community and ministry, values deeply held by the Dominican Order. In doing so, they bring Dominican values to their families, churches, neighborhoods, workplaces and cities. Our Associates are attorneys, teachers, business-owners, factory workers, doctors, homemakers and many other walks of life. They bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to the world through their work, their art and their lives, following the example of St. Catherine of Siena, who said, “Preach the Truth as if you had a million voices. It is silence that kills the world.”

How do I explore Becoming an Associate?

We will provide you with a program of exploration that takes one year. We call this a discernment time and it is led by a Mentor Team, in which you can explore Dominican charism, the congregation and the Associate life. During that time, you may discover new friends and people who share your values and passion. The Mentor Team is there to answer questions and guide you in your understanding of the Dominican way of life and the particular mission of the Dominican Sisters of Peace. You may also discover a deepening desire to live the broad and joyful Dominican way and want to make a formal commitment as an Associate.

What do Associates do?

Associates are active in their community, churches and with the Dominican Sisters of Peace. Associates try to meet regularly with other Associates and Sisters in their area for group activities and for study and prayer. Associates are encouraged to form groups with local Sisters and Associates and hold regular meetings for prayer and study. Associates are also invited to attend retreats, the Sisters’ annual meeting which is called Chapter, and other events planned by ministries, Sisters or Associates. During the Chapter meeting, the Dominican Sisters of Peace in conjunction with the Associates commit themselves to a specific direction and focus (learn about our current Chapter Commitments).

How long is an Associate Commitment?

After you have explored what it means to be an Associate and have completed our discernment program, you are invited to make a two-year commitment. After that, you may choose to renew your commitment for four years at a time. Those who feel that they can no longer be active Associates often choose to become a Prayer Associate supporting the world and the congregation in prayer.

Who can become a Dominican Associate?

Any Christian who feels drawn to the Dominican charism can explore becoming an Associate of the Dominican Sisters of Peace. You do not have to be Catholic, but you must believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and our Dominican mission and charism. Our Associates are women and men; married, single, divorced and widowed; clergy members and lay persons of all ages and from all different geographic areas and walks of life.

Learn more.

For more information about becoming a Dominican Associate, please contact Celeste Williams at cwilliams@oppeace.org or 330.835.5688).