Saint Dominic's Way of Life: A Path to Knowing and Loving God

by Patrick Mary Briscoe, Jacob Bertrand Janczyk

Few Catholics today know much about Saint Dominic, who died eight hundred years ago in 1221. Unlike Francis of Assisi, Teresa of Ávila, or Ignatius of Loyola, Dominic did not leave a deposit of writings to be examined and built upon. Yet this medieval Spaniard still has much to teach us today, and we see this in the way of life he left to the Church. Dominic offers a rich approach to Christian living, not just for members of the Order of Preachers, the religious order he founded, but for all Catholics. His dedication to prayer, penance, and the Word of God, and his love of neighbor, form the deep foundation of his project of being conformed to God. By following in Dominic’s footsteps, we too can discover how to live with a heart that is undivided, seeking God first in all things. “The twenty-first century remains in need of the witness and ministry of Saint Dominic, the thirteenth-century priest who consecrated his life to the sharing of saving truth. Fortunately, Fathers Briscoe and Janczyk have produced a highly readable and inspiring book that enables the men and women of our own time to discover the graces that Dominic continues to bring to us as an instrument of God, the author of grace. In Saint Dominic, the contemplative preacher of grace, we can all find a spiritual father who will teach us to know and love the Lord Jesus, who is himself Saving Truth.” — Father Sebastian White, OP, editor-in-chief, Magnificat “This beautiful book allows us to get to know Saint Dominic better, who was so close to God and so full of compassion for all the sufferings of his time. He is a shining example of what we are called to do seek God with all our heart to pour out the balm of his merciful love on all the plagues of our world.” — Father Jacques Philippe, best-selling author and retreat master

Genres: Catholic, Religion, Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

Published June 2, 2021

Reviews

[Richard Grebenc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hoping to become a Lay Dominican someday, I was excited when I heard about this recently released book from Our Sunday Visitor, so I immediately purchased it.

What a find! And what a great contribution to Dominican literature. Written by two young Dominican priests it provides a beautiful overview of what the Dominican order is all about. It seamlessly weaves in biographical notes about Dominic and some history of the Dominicans in explicating the charisms of the order. A profound, but not difficult, read that is ideal for anyone interested in the Dominican way of life specifically or enhancing one's relationship with the Lord generally.

An ideal book to give to someone considering becoming a Dominican of first, second, or third order or anyone who wants to know more about Dominic and his followers. At only 130 pages with short chapters, each with several sections, it can be worked through in short order or in small bites. A real blessing.

[Sean Conley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good intro to St. Dominic. Very accessible.

[Mikayla Vaughan · Rating 4 out of 5]

After finishing My God and My All, I told Ryan if I could be in a religious order I’d be a Franciscan. So he told me to read the life of St. Dominic and let him
know if I still felt that way.

I loved reading about the life and way of another 13th century Saint and founder of a religious order. St. Dominic’s faithfulness from his childhood and the quietness of his life is not very common, but I appreciated his relatability. His devotion to scripture, scholarship, Our Lady, AND poverty was inspiring and encouraging.

My only complaint is that it wasn’t long enough. Unlike St. Francis, most of what came out about St. Dominic came out during his canonization process. But still… I’d be enjoying information in a section and then it’d be over.

[Daniela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very educational. I just wished that it came with some illustrations.

[Jonathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short little book packs a hefty amount of information. It is succinct and very accessible, but has so much good and profound information and observations about St. Dominic and Dominican Spirituality - and the relevancy for Dominicans in our time. It could have easily been called “The Dominican Option.” I’m a Finally Professed Lay Dominican and I thought I wouldn’t have much to glean from this book, but not true! I think this should be required reading for Postulants and Novitiates, and is a great introduction or short study for anyone interested in St. Dominic and his Order of Preachers.

[Alejo Seañez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fr. Patrick and Fr. Jacob write a good and condensed book which contains the mission, vision and role of the Order of Preachers. I enjoyed the quotes provided and the bite-sized descriptions of the habits one should do to know and love God.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m looking into becoming a lay Dominican and this was recommended.

Really inspiring. Just loved it.

[Tim Timberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

For me, it was a short introduction to St. Dominic and his spirituality. It provided me with a few good points to ponder. The book also made me want to read more about St. Dominic and his life.

[Matt Ebenroth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very practical, easy read

[Mike · Rating 1 out of 5]

Meh. I thought it leaned to heavily as a spiritual reflection rather than a biography.