The Vows of a Dominican Nun
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A Life Dedicated to God
Dominican nuns devote their lives entirely to God by taking three solemn vows – poverty, chastity, and obedience. Through these promises, they choose a life of simplicity, prayer, and community, following the example of Saint Dominic and the ideals of the Order of Preachers.
Poverty
By the vow of poverty, the nuns give up personal possessions and live together in shared simplicity. Everything they have belongs to the community, allowing them to depend on God’s providence and remain free from material concerns.
Chastity
The vow of chastity expresses their deep love for Christ and commitment to serving God with an undivided heart. It enables them to dedicate themselves fully to prayer, study, and helping others through their spiritual work.
Obedience
Through the vow of obedience, the nuns promise to follow the guidance of their prioress and the rule of the Order. This vow helps them grow in humility, trust, and unity as they seek to do God’s will in all things.
The Dominican Way of Life
Together, these vows shape a life of contemplation, truth, and quiet service. Within the convent, the nuns pray for the world, study sacred writings, and support one another in faith. Their life reflects Saint Dominic’s call: to praise, to bless, and to preach.
The Habit of a Dominican Nun
Veil
The black veil, edged with a fine white trim, is worn over the coif and signifies the nun’s renunciation of the world and her complete dedication to God. Novices wear a white veil until they take their solemn vows.
Coif
This white headpiece consists of a cotton cap and wimple that frame the face while covering the head, neck, and cheeks. It represents modesty and humility.
Tunic
The long, flowing white tunic forms the main garment of the habit. Its simplicity symbolises purity and the nun’s commitment to a life of service and devotion.
Scapular
Worn over the tunic, the scapular is a length of white cloth that falls from the shoulders down the front and back. According to Dominican tradition, it was bestowed upon the Order by the Virgin Mary as a sign of her protection.
Cincture (Belt)
A plain leather belt, worn around the waist, secures the habit and symbolises the vow of chastity.
Rosary
A complete fifteen-decade rosary hangs from the left side of the belt. Always visible, it serves as a constant reminder of prayer and spiritual reflection.
Cappa (Mantle)
On formal occasions, a long black cloak is worn over the tunic and scapular. This mantle symbolises penance and the contemplative aspect of Dominican life.