Who is St. Dominic?

St. Dominic de Guzman, the founder of the Dominican Order, was a man of remarkable character and broadness of vision. He had the deepest compassion for every sort of human suffering, and he saw the need to use all the resources of human learning in the service of Christ.

He was born to Jane of Aza and Felix de Guzman in c1173 in Caleruega, Spain. He died in Bologna, Italy, in 1221 and was canonized in July 1234.

St. Dominic’s regular companions on his journey were St. Matthew’s gospel and the letters of St. Paul.

He was in constant search of the truth about God and God’s presence. Wherever he went he showed himself in word and deed to be a man of the Gospel. During the day, no one was more community-minded or pleasant toward his brothers and associates. During the night hours, no one was more persistent in prayer.

Dominican Spirituality

“The Spirituality of the Dominicans is the spirituality of Christ the Preacher and of the Apostles.” [Fr William Hinnebusch OP]

St Dominic’s love for prayer, study and community gave him the joy to move on to preach to all peoples, never minding the distances.

A version of this article was first published by Dominican Missionary Sisters.