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Discerning A Call

Discernment, when it comes to becoming a Lay Dominican, is a process of prayerfully and thoughtfully considering whether God is calling you to this specific vocation. It’s a personal journey guided by the Holy Spirit, involving reflection on your desires, abilities, and spiritual life in light of the charisms and mission of the Dominican Order.

1. Understanding the Dominican Charism

The first step in discernment is learning about the Dominican charism and spirituality. Lay Dominicans are called to live a life rooted in:

  • Prayer: A daily rhythm of personal and communal prayer, especially the Liturgy of the Hours and the Rosary.

 

  • Study: A love for learning, particularly in theology and Scripture, to deepen one’s faith and share it with others.

 

  • Community: Living and growing in faith alongside fellow Lay Dominicans in a spirit of fraternity.

 

  • Apostolate (Preaching): Sharing the fruits of your contemplation through actions and words in your daily life.

If these resonate with your spiritual inclinations and gifts, it could be a sign that you are called to the Lay Dominican life.

2. Prayerful Reflection

Spend time in prayer asking God for guidance. Reflect on questions like:

  • Do I feel a deep desire to live a more structured and intentional spiritual life?

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  • Am I drawn to study and a greater understanding of my faith?

 

  • Do I have a heart for sharing the Gospel in my daily life and work?

 

  • Do I feel at home with the Dominican charism of balancing contemplation and action?

Discernment often involves seeking inner peace about the decision. If you find that exploring the Lay Dominican vocation brings a sense of joy and purpose, it may be a sign of God’s call.

3. Exploring the Lay Dominican Community

Connect with a local Lay Dominican chapter (fraternity). Attending meetings, participating in their prayer life, and learning about their commitments are essential steps. Many Lay Dominicans describe this as a key part of their discernment. Ask yourself:

  • Do I feel a sense of belonging with the group?

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  • Can I see myself committing to the community and its mission?​

Engaging with the community allows you to see the practical aspects of Lay Dominican life and how it aligns with your personal vocation.

4. Formation and Testing the Call

If you feel called, the Lay Dominican discernment process includes a formal period of formation. This is a multi-year journey that helps you grow in knowledge, faith, and understanding of Dominican life. It usually involves:

  • An initial inquiry phase, where you learn the basics of Lay Dominican life and spirituality.

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  • A period of candidacy, where you begin to integrate Dominican practices and discern more deeply.

 

  • Temporary promises, leading to Perpetual​ promises, which signify a lifelong commitment.

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This gradual process is designed to ensure that your decision is prayerful, informed, and supported by the community.

5. Trusting God’s Timing

Discernment is not about rushing into a decision but about trusting that God will lead you where you need to be. It’s okay to take time to explore and to recognize that saying “yes” to one vocation often means saying “no” to others. If God is calling you to the Lay Dominicans, you’ll find that your desire for this life grows stronger over time and aligns with your personal gifts and circumstances.

Signs of a True Call

Some signs that you might be called to the Lay Dominicans include:

  • A persistent desire to deepen your prayer life and relationship with God.

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  • A hunger for theological study and a love for truth.

 

  • A joy in sharing the Gospel through words and actions.

 

  • A sense of peace and purpose when engaging with the Dominican community and spirituality.

Discernment isn’t a solitary journey; you can lean on the guidance of a spiritual director, Lay Dominican mentors, or even Dominican friars or sisters. They can help you navigate your thoughts and prayers to clarify your call.

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Our Lady Of The Rosary Group

Southern Dominican Laity

Among the disciples of Christ, men and women living in the world, by virtue of their Baptism and Confirmation, have been made participants in the prophetic, priestly and royal office of our Lord Jesus Christ. They are called to make Christ’s living presence to people so that “the divine message of salvation be made known and accepted by all people throughout the world” (Apost. Act. 4, 3).

Meeting Location

St. Matthew Catholic Church

8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy.
Charlotte, NC 28277

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Meetings are held on the third Sunday of each month. Please contact us before planning to attend. 

 © 2025 Our Lady Of The Rosary Group

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