Caleruega welcomes Dominican Sisters from all over the world to reflect together on the future of their preaching
From August 19 to 25, 45 young Dominican religious women from the five continental areas of the DSIC gathered in Caleruega to reflect on God's dream for preachers in today's world.
This gathering, held at the birthplace of Saint Dominic, provided a valuable opportunity to deepen their Dominican heritage and rediscover their identity as women preachers.
Throughout the week, the participants' reflections were enriched by presentations from two distinguished Dominican sisters. Sr. Barbara Reid, OP (USA), one of the leading voices in feminist interpretation of Scripture, gave a lecture titled "A Spirituality of Open Eyes: Reading the Signs of the Times," in which she encouraged the sisters to consider how to engage with others, act as prophetic voices, and be bridge builders in their respective contexts.
Meanwhile, Sr. Ana Francisca Vergara, OP (Colombia), shared her vision in the presentation "Theological Study and Contemplation in Service of Our Preaching as Women," inspiring participants to use prayer and contemplation to respond to the needs of today's world.
Sr. Sabine Schratz (Ireland) also provided insight into the historical context of Dominican religious life from its foundation to the present, inviting the participants to examine historical trends and key events. Following this, the sisters gathered in regional groups to discuss the reality of Dominican religious life in their own contexts and continue dreaming together.
Throughout the days, the religious women reflected on their mission in the Church, addressing topics such as inclusion, commitment to others, and the capacity for transformation through shared experiences. In addition to reflections and presentations, the participants went on pilgrimages to significant places, such as the Benedictine monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos and El Burgo de Osma, where Saint Dominic was ordained a priest.
At the end of the week, the names of the five sisters chosen to represent the youngest religious women at the DSIC Assembly, to be held in Rome in May 2025, were announced:
- Mila Díaz Solano (North America and Canada)
- Alma Zapanta (Asia-Pacific)
- Mary Onoshokhue Ekwe (Africa)
- Emilie Ruzickova (Europe)
- Alcira Guerrero (Latin America and the Caribbean)
This gathering was an opportunity to deepen familiar themes and to dream together about the future of the Dominican mission. The diversity of voices and experiences of sisters from different parts of the world brought great richness and posed a challenge that undoubtedly helped everyone interpret the signs of the times with a new perspective and a broader vision.
Source: International Dominican Sisters