Saint Dominic, Priest
Celebrating Saint Dominic, a passionate priest and founder of the Order of Preachers, on August 8.
Saint Dominic's Legacy
Saint Dominic (1170–1221) is venerated for his dedication to preaching the Gospel and for founding the Order of Preachers, known for its commitment to education and truth. His life exemplifies a profound love for God and a passion for guiding others in faith.
His feast day, celebrated on August 8, serves as a reminder for families to engage in dialogue about faith, to educate one another, and to spread the light of Christ’s teachings through both words and actions.
The Life of Saint Dominic
Born in Caleruega, Spain, Saint Dominic showed exceptional promise from an early age, dedicating himself to a life of prayer and service. He recognized the need for a renewed preaching mission in the Church and sought to engage minds and hearts through reasoned teaching.
Dominic was canonized by Pope Gregory IX in 1234, and his order rapidly spread throughout Europe, dedicated to the pursuit of truth and salvation. The rich tradition of this feast has encouraged Christians to not only live their faith but to actively share it with others.
To truly love God is to preach Him.
— Saint DominicPreach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.
2 Timothy 4:2Symbols & iconography
- DogOften depicted with a dog symbolizing the 'Dog of the Lord,' representing his devotion to spreading the Gospel.
- StarStars are shown in his imagery, representing the guiding light of faith and truth.
Customs & traditions
Prayer and Reflection
Begin the day with a family prayer asking for Saint Dominic's intercession.
Teach a Virtue
Discuss a virtue associated with Saint Dominic, such as charity or knowledge, and how to practice it as a family.
Read His Writings
Explore a selection of Saint Dominic's teachings or writings to inspire conversation.
Create a Family Service Project
Plan a community service activity that embodies Saint Dominic’s love for teaching and helping others.
About this date
Saint Dominic's feast is observed on August 8, commemorating his passing to eternal life and celebrating his enduring influence on the Church.
Frequently asked
Who was Saint Dominic?
He was a priest and the founder of the Order of Preachers, dedicated to preaching, education, and truth.
Why is the dog associated with Saint Dominic?
The dog symbolizes his mission to spread the Word of God, suggesting he would light the world on fire with his preaching.
How can we honor Saint Dominic at home?
Families can honor him through prayer, discussion about virtues, and community service in his spirit.
Pray it as a household
Bring the feast into your family’s day
Solua walks your family through the day’s prayer together — a few unhurried minutes, shaped by the season.
Pray Together