Springfield Dominican Congregation welcomes 17 new associates

In a Eucharistic celebration on Sunday, May 19 at Sacred Heart Chapel in Springfield, Illinois, 17 candidates formalized their relationship with the Dominican Family by making a public commitment to witness Gospel values as Springfield Dominican Associates. In doing so, they join more than 300 women and men in the United States and Peru who accompany the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois on a life-long journey of prayer, study and preaching. This year’s class included candidates from Springfield, Dunlap, Evergreen Park, Lafayette, Indiana, Gridley, Palos Heights, Jacksonville, Carlinville, Charleston and Decatur.

The Springfield Dominicans have been welcoming Dominican Associates into their family since 1990. Candidates engage in a nine-month formation program in which they learn about and discuss such topics as Catholic Social Teaching, a Call to Prayer and Preaching, Living the Liturgy, St. Dominic and St. Catherine, Mission and Ministry, Living a Balanced Life and the History of the Springfield Dominicans. Associate candidates also discern how they will use their talents, abilities and circumstances to serve God in the best way possible.

Dominican Associates, graced by their membership in the Dominican Family, witness the Gospel daily in their workplaces and relationships. Many say their prayer life has deepened as a result of the formation process and they flourish when surrounded by the love and support of fellow Christians. The Dominican Associate program enhances relationships, not just with the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois, but also with God and God’s people.

For more information about the Dominican Associate program, contact Sister Paul Mary Janssens, OP at 217-787-0481. Learn more about the Dominican Sisters of Springfield, Illinois by visiting their web site at www.springfieldop.org.