| Summary: | 碩士 === 輔仁大學 === 宗教學系碩士在職專班 === 103 === The Order of Preachers, commonly known as the Dominicans, founded by Saint Dominic in 1257, has been one of the most influential force of Roman Catholic Church. One of its impacts is placing as main goal in preaching the idea of the Catholics religion, while preserving a humble lifestyle by its members. The Dominicans made their marks in renovating Roman Catholic Church, and in missionary works into the rest of the world, including Taiwan.
The author of this thesis was baptized and raised as a Catholic since childhood, and has attended Saint Dominic Church at Jiling Road, Taipei. Later, my personal interests toward traditional cultures led me to become a certified guide by Taipei City Archives Committee at Confucius Temple, Bao-An Temple, Long-Shan Temple, Chihshanyen, Bob-Pip Limo. It was then I realized how little I know about the church I have been attended life-long. I therefore choose the Dominic as the object of this thesis.
Witnessing the ineffectiveness of Church's battle toward the heresy in southern France, Saint Dominic established a new Order, where the friars are to place preaching as the primary goal, yet maintaining a humble lifestyle as the Apostles; they pursue religious growth through faith and prayer, and promote education. The organization pioneered a democratic structure, each province is to be responsible for themselves. The Dominicans prospered in central and southern Europe, then spread to the rest of the world. The Dominican Order has since lasted 800 years. During this period, the Europe changed slowly from feudalism into nationalism. The growth of authority of kings and congress reduced the influence of the Catholic Church. The uprising of Protestants, the industrial revolutions and the formation of middle class formed pressure for the Order and the Church to adapt. After 800 years, what virtues are to keep, what practice are be modified, in this modern society?
The friars of Province of Our Lady of Rosary obtained great success in the Philippines, yet face resistance of traditional values in Taiwan. How did the pioneer friars held up their spiritual goal while overcoming obstacles? It is one the objects of this thesis too.
In retrospection of the history of the Dominican Order, we realize it is a dynamic organization that can adapt to the changing societies and environments. Some of the external from and practices might have been adjusted, yet the core value of the Dominicans have been well kept through the effort of Dominican friars, to this modern word.
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