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After living six years as a friar, it is finally time to make the
life-long commitment to become a Dominican for life, or "return to the
world." The friar has received ample time to discern if he is to live within
the community of the province, and the province has received ample time to discern if they
would like the friar to permanently join the community.
In the course of formation, this
is one of the most joyful of all occasions. Once solemn vows are made, there is no
more discerning if "this is the right place for me." Also, the friar
enjoys full participation in the life of the community. This can mean having an
active voice in the governance of the community. In other words, the friar may now
vote. The Dominicans are a democratic-style model of governance, and we elect our
own leaders and officials of the Province. In the spirit of this governance, it is
not uncommon that one day you are a friar in a elected position of power, and the next you
are without any leadership authority. This is part of the Dominican tradition, and
solemn vows makes you a part of the governance of the community.
Normal Formula for Solemn Profession:
I, brother N.N., make profession and promise obedience to God, and to Blessed Mary, and
to Blessed Dominic, and to you brother N.N. Prior Provincial of the province of the Most
Holy Name of Jesus; in place of brother N.N. Master of the Order of Friars Preachers and
his successors, according to the Rule of Blessed Augustine and the Constitutions of the
Friars Preachers, that I will be obedient to you and your successors until death.
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Solemn Vows Procession (2000)
Prostration (2000)
Prostration (2000)
Br. Anselm Ramelow makes his vows (2000) |
