Dominican Associates ~ Grand Rapids
Are you drawn to the Dominican contemplative path but not to the commitment of vows? Dominican Associates are non-vowed women and men
who desire to practice their Christian faith in the spirit of the Dominican Order of Preachers. They aspire to become a part of who we are, integrating the essence of St. Dominic into their work and social goals. These members of the Dominican Family embody the same Dominican fundamentals - to praise, to bless and to preach - each walking their own path in their religious journey.
The Dominican Associates ~ Grand Rapids follow a formation process that includes classes and mentoring by other Associates and Sisters. Each year, during the celebration of the Feast of St. Dominic, prospective Associates take part in a formal ceremony - their initial commitment to the Dominican way. Associates near and far participate in the essence of the Congregation through a variety of activities such as prayer, study groups, involvement in matters of social justice and volunteerism. The Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids have more than one hundred Associate members, each of whom strives to bring the Good News to their family, community, place of worship and workplace.
An Associate Reflects
An interesting thing to me is that when I became an Associate, people from Sunday Eucharist already thought I was one. The most recognizable difference came with the Sisters because they know the Associates as an active part of the Dominican community.
Internal and private prayer is important—but so is communal prayer. Becoming an Associate has been an opportunity for me to have a more intimate relationship with God. Associates share the experience of living in community with others who want to incorporate the Dominican charism of prayer, study, communal life and ministry into their own lives. We do this through weekly Mass and though weekly prayer meetings.
As an Associate, I continue to learn from people who have dedicated their lives to this way of life. The Sisters are preachers—they study, reflect and preach the Gospel. We talk with each other about God in a really meaningful way. Through sharing our journeys we 'break open the word' with each other.”
Peter, Associate since 2006
For more information about the Associate Program contact:
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Mary Kay Oosdyke, OP
Onsite Coordinator for Associate Life
2025 East Fulton Street
Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3895
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616-459-2910 ext. 144 or
toll free: 1-800-253-7343
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