Dominican Prayer

Dominican Prayer and Liturgy

Saint Dominic had an extraordinary dedication to a life of prayer. The men who joined Dominic, who walked the roads with him and who observed his lifestyle would later testify to his commitment to praying with them and to spending long hours alone in prayer. Prayer was an essential part of his life and the source of his passion for preaching and evangelization. Dominic passed on this passion for prayer to his followers. For Dominicans, the goal of all prayer is to lead the individual friar into a more intimate knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Communal celebration of the Eucharist and praying the Divine Office comprise the heart of Dominican life. Praying together in community provides the brothers with the primary strength and nourishment necessary for their ministries. Aside from the time spent in communal prayer and liturgy each friar is encouraged to set aside time for private prayer. Whether participating in a Holy Hour, praying the rosary, lectio divina or simply spending some time in front of the Blessed Sacrament - the Dominican friar understands the importance of nurturing his relationship with God. His prayer and contemplation, allow room for the Holy Spirit to breathe new life and energy into him and in turn, to share the fruits of his prayer through his preaching. Developing a strong prayer life is something that occurs over time. Very few men begin their Dominican life with a fully developed prayer life. During his years of initial formation, as a student brother, his prayer life will to continue to develop incorporating these aspects of Dominican prayer.