Charism

As we look at the earliest stories of Dominic and the foundational stories of our congregations we find a legacy of principles which clearly define the Dominican charism:

• Commitment to an evolving relationship with God nurtured in prayer and study
• Recognition that the story of Dominic is embedded in the larger Christian story of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus
• The search for truth which has its home in the mystery of God and God’s Word
• Recognition of the dignity of all people and their potential to contribute to the community
• Respect for the integrity of creation and delight in the beauty reflected in all aspects
• Respect for ideas, a readiness to explore new ways of being Dominican that responds to the needs of the contemporary world
• Ability to bring critical judgement and discernment to the issues of our times
• Democratic principles in all forms of governance

The hallmark of Dominican Charism (spirituality) is preaching, a point that is made obvious to us in the fact that St Dominic founded the Order of Preachers (OP).  St Dominic oriented everything he did toward authentically imitating Christ.  He knew in his own age, which was wrought with heresy, that only a well-educated person who lives humbly, charitably, and uprightly could best transmit the life of Christ to the world.  Therefore, his placement of prayer first in his life, his poverty and austerity, his insistence on study and thorough education, his emphasis on community life and charity all have a purpose: everything that a Dominican does must prepare his soul for preaching well the truth of Christ to the world.