Even today, young people volunteer for an authentic quest for the Dominican vocation, to join the 5,500 friars and 24,000 sisters and nuns of the Dominican Family in 83 countries.
The various stages leading to definitive commitment to the Dominican Order (or Order of Preachers) are straightforward and focused on one fundamental objective: to enable the coherent and progressive integration of the main components of Dominican life.
The following criteria are used to assess an aspirant’s suitability for Dominican life:
- To have entered into the experience of becoming a disciple of Christ Jesus, and to be attached to his Gospel. Candidates who have recently converted (converts), returned to the faith, or are newly baptized (neophytes) must wait a minimum of three years before applying for admission to the Order (novitiate).
- Make a meaningful commitment to the Church.
- To be capable of obedience and solidarity when the mission in the service of the Order requires it.
- Demonstrate the skills required to live in a community.
- Between 22 and 35 years of age. Above this age, candidates must demonstrate an exceptional faith journey and commitment in the Church and already have some background in philosophy and theology studies.
- Completion of college studies or equivalent.
- Have no debts or be able to pay them off before entering the novitiate.
- Be able to live independently and responsibly before entering the Order.
- Demonstrate affective maturity to live chastity in consecrated celibacy.
- Be in good physical and psychological health.
- Hold Canadian citizenship or Permanent Resident (PR) status and have lived in the country for a reasonable period of time. If this does not apply to you, don’t worry — you can find a Dominican community in your region to connect with: Find a Dominican Province