Our Associate Program

Who are the Associates of the Dominican Sisters of Hope? The Associates are a diverse group of people called into relationship with the Dominican Sisters of Hope and rooted in the Dominican charism: To contemplate and to give to others the fruits of our contemplation. They gather with members of the Dominican Sisters of Hope as a faith community for mutual spiritual bonding, growth, nourishment, support and empowerment to live the Gospel and promote the life and mission of the Dominican Sisters of Hope.

What does it mean to be an Associate? Associates enjoy a variety of relationships with the Dominican Sisters of Hope based on the recognition of the unique gifts and needs of both members and associates. Associates are a diverse group of people with varying lifestyles, occupations and marital status. They are from various geographic regions as well as ethnic and religious traditions. This diversity is embraced and celebrated. Associates are persons who have discerned a call and have made a commitment to live Gospel values in relationship with the Dominican Sisters of Hope and with each other. Each associate furthers the mission of the Dominican Sisters of Hope within the context of her/his own lifestyle. In recognition of the major paradigm shifts happening in society in general and in religious life in particular, the relationship of associates is organically structured and evolves over time. Associates, together with vowed members, participate in opportunities to grow in the Dominican charism of prayer, study, preaching and community. Vowed members and Associates bond through prayer, gatherings, shared ministry and/or other occasions for sharing life and mission. At the invitation of the Dominican Sisters of Hope, Associates may choose to participate as non-voters in Congregation meetings.

Framework for the Associate Process

The Coordinating Committee is selected for a term of two or three years at an Associate Gathering by all those present. is composed of five people, both vowed and non-vowed, who facilitate the Associate Process. Coordinating Committee members Plan rituals, gathering days, and days of prayer Implement the process of incorporation Coordinate public relations Connect with intercongregational groups Maintain a Directory of Associates including ministries and work areas Share other tasks as needed Outline for Associate Incorporation Invitation Journeying (Participation and Education) Discernment Commitment

Associate Vision Statement

We are a diverse group of people called into relationship with the Dominican Sisters of Hope and rooted in the Dominican charism, "To contemplate and to give to others the fruit of our contemplation." We gather with members of the Dominican Sisters of Hope as a faith community for mutual spiritual bonding, growth, nourishment, support and empowerment to live the Gospel and promote the life and mission of the Dominican Sisters of Hope. For more information about the Dominican Sisters of Hope Associate Program, contact Judith Jarfas at Judyjarfas@ezaccess.net