evidenced throughout all of the branches of the
Order reflects the spirit and intentions of its founder, though some of the elements of what later developed may have surprised the Castilian friar. Fundamentally,
Dominic was
]"…a man of prayer who utilized the full resources of the learning available to him to preach, to teach, and even materially to assist those searching for the truth found in the gospel of Christ. It is that spirit which **[Dominic] **bequeathed to his followers".[20]The spiritual tradition of **Dominic’s Order
is punctuated not only by charity, study and preaching, but also by instances of mystical union. The Dominican emphasis on learning and on charity distinguishes it from other monastic and mendicant orders. As the Order first developed on the European continent, learning continued to be emphasized by these friars and their sisters in Christ. These religious also struggled for a deeply personal, intimate relationship with God. When the Order **reached England, many of these attributes were kept, but the English gave the
Order additional, specialized characteristics. This topic is discussed below.
Dominic’s search for a close relationship with God was determined and unceasing. He rarely spoke, so little of his interior life is known. What is known about it comes from accounts written by people near to him. St. Cecilia remembered him as cheerful, charitable and full of unceasing vigor. From a number of accounts, singing was apparently one of
Dominic’s great delights.[18]
Dominic practiced self-scourging and would mortify himself as he prayed alone in the chapel at night for ‘poor sinners.’ He owned a single habit, refused to carry money, and would allow no one to serve him.[19]
Mottos
**Laudare, Benedicere, Praedicare **
To praise, to bless and to preach
*(from the Dominican Missal, Preface of the Blessed Virgin Mary) *
**Veritas **
Truth
Contemplari et Contemplata Aliis Tradere **
To study and to hand on the fruits of study (or, to contemplate and to hand on the fruits of contemplation)
:compcoff: Link: ** en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominican_Order
- WikipediA****
