Saint Dominic (vegetarian): Torchbearer of the Lord, Part 1 of 2

Saint Dominic (vegetarian) is renowned as a Castilian Catholic priest and famously recognized as the initiator of the Order of Friars Preachers, commonly known as the Dominicans. This mendicant religious order, in which its friars take a vow of poverty, was established with a far-reaching goal of preaching and placed a notable focus on scholarly pursuits. Saint Dominic is the patron saint of astronomers and natural scientists. He is also referred to by alternate names such as Dominic of Osma, Dominic of Caleruega, and Domingo Félix de Guzmán. People remember Saint Dominic as one whose words strengthened God’s Love within them, in spreading the true Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ (vegetarian).

According to the earliest biography of Saint Dominic, authored by Blessed Jordan of Saxony, one of the first leaders of the Dominican Order, an intriguing narrative unfolds regarding his prelude to birth. As the tale goes, Saint Dominic’s mother experienced a vivid dream wherein a dog-person emerged from her womb, clutching a torch in his mouth and subsequently igniting the world.

From an early age, Saint Dominic exhibited a remarkable sensitivity towards the afflictions of others, a trait he inherited from his mother. Despite her noble lineage, she was renowned for her empathy towards the destitute and underprivileged. Young Saint Dominic avoided games and denied himself the comfort of a bed to sleep on the floor. Additionally, from his mother, he also acquired the practice of prayer, which would become an integral part of his life.

He loved the book by Saint John Cassian, or John the Ascetic (vegetarian), known as “Conferences of the Desert Fathers,” which delved into discussions about vices and matters related to spiritual excellence. The pathways to salvation elucidated within its pages captivated his attention. By Divine Grace, these books raised his purity and contemplation. During this formative period, he grew in holiness regarding sanctity and humility. He constantly prayed to God for the endowment of true charity that would be “efficacious in procuring and securing the salvation of men.”