Who Are the Dominican Sisters?

Dominican Sisters belong to the worldwide family of friars, sisters, nuns and laity that comprise the Order of Preachers (also sometimes referred to as "the Dominicans"). Founded in 1216 by St. Dominic de Guzman, the Order of Preachers was created in response to a desperate need for informed preaching. 800 years later, we continue to live out Dominic's vision bound by a common life of prayer, community, study and ministry.

Dominican Sisters in the United States are a diverse, vibrant and colorful mosaic of the Church. Their mission to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ is carried out in countless ways. The Gospel is brought to life through their teaching, care for the poor, advocacy for justice, their art and music, care of creation, spiritual enrichment ministries, housing advocacy, and much more.

Collaboration and building relationships are the hallmarks of their work. Dominican Sisters in the U.S. and around the world reflect a broad spectrum of experiences. They can be found in the halls of Congress, in rural farmlands, in universities, in prisons and in neighborhood centers.  Together they search out God's hopes for the world.

Dominican Sisters from over 21 congregations, based in the US, serve in almost 50 states as well as Peru, Pakistan, Nicaragua, Canada, Guatemala, Kenya, Italy, Cameroon, Poland, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Bolivia, Trinidad and Tobago, Honduras, and Nigeria.

Visit the websites of these congregations and learn more about becoming a Dominican Sister.