The Ascent of Saint Dominic is observed annually on August 10th. This day, the statue of Saint Dominic is brought to the Parish of Las Sierritas through a colourful procession and pristine celebrations. This holiday commemorates the conclusion of the Santo Domingo celebrations in Nicaragua, which began on August 1 with his descent and ended on August 10 with his ascent. The Roman Catholic church encourages locals to participate in the parade commemorating the life, burial, and legacy of Santo Domingo de Guzman as a public holiday. People brandishing images and statuettes of the saint participate in elaborate street parades and celebrations.
The background of Ascent of Saint Dominic
Saint Dominic, also referred to as Domingo Felix De Guzman, was born in Caleruega, Spain, on August 8, 1170. To conclude his elementary education, he was sent to the Premonstratensian monastery in Santa Maria de La Vid at age 14. However, he transferred to Palencia, where he studied art for six years and theology for four. At this juncture in his life, he discovered his personal relationship with God and decided to devote his life to serving him. In 1194, he received his priestly ordination and entered the Cathedral of Osma. In 1198, Bishop Diego the Acebo appointed Dominic as the chapter’s superior.
In 1215, Dominic established six disciples and thereby founded the Dominicans. He felt compelled to establish a new organisation to address the spiritual requirements of the populace through systemic education and organisational adaptability. He then sought the sanction of the pope for this formation, and in January 1217, Pope Honorius III granted him authority.
The Dominican convent at Basilica de Santa Sabina in Rome was founded formally on June 5, 1222, following a legitimate transfer of property from the Pope himself. In the 20th century, he also founded the Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, which subsequently became the College of Saint Thomas, and the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
Saint Dominic died on August 6, 1221 at the age of fifty-one. In 1234, he was canonised by the church.
Chad Independence Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Chad
National Align Your Teeth Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Dentistry
World Lion Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Lion
5 Interesting St. Dominic Facts
Saint Dominic used to sell his books as a child and donate the proceeds to the needy.
His mother saw a bright star on his chest during his birth, which made him the patron saint of astronomers.
As a symbol of chastity, most artists depict Saint Dominic with a dog by his side.
Before founding the Dominican Order, he was a member of the Augustinian Order.
He was given the name of Dominic of Silos.
ASCENT OF SAINT DOMINIC DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | August 10 | Thursday |
2024 | August 10 | Saturday |
2025 | August 10 | Sunday |
2026 | August 10 | Monday |
2027 | August 10 | Tuesday |