SAN RAFAEL, Calif. — For 175 years, the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael have brought the Gospel to bear on the critical issues of their time in California and the western United States. To sustain that mission well into the future, they have enthusiastically voted to join the Dominican Sisters Association (DSA), an innovative model of affiliation among Dominican congregations that lays the groundwork for future shared canonical governance. Because Aug. 8 is the feast of St. Dominic, founder of the Dominican Order, it is fitting to announce that the San Rafael congregation’s DSA membership is effective immediately.

A new model of shared governance

For generations, most Dominican congregations in the United States have operated independently. The DSA represents a new way of strengthening their Dominican charism while honoring the distinct identity of each congregation. Guided by the San Rafael 2024 General Chapter Call for Moving Forward Together, all San Rafael sisters participated in listening sessions, prayerful conversations, and discernment that led to this decision.

DSA membership does not change the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael’s name, civil or canonical identity, or presence in the local community. Rather, it deepens the congregation’s connection to the network of Dominican Sisters throughout the U.S., strengthening participating communities through shared resources, leadership, mutual support, and stewardship as they adapt to changing realities and carry their missions forward.

Sister leaders respond to the decision

Sister Abby Newton, OP, prioress of the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, said, “Guided by our 2024 General Chapter call for Moving Forward Together, our congregation and Leadership Team explored how best to safeguard and strengthen our Dominican life and mission for the future. Joining the Dominican Sisters Association is a joyful and hopeful response to that call. It preserves who we are as the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael while expanding our capacity to share resources, support one another, and sustain Dominican charism for generations to come. Together with our Dominican Sisters in Amityville, Blauvelt, Caldwell, Hope, and Sparkill, we are strengthening Dominican life and charism across the country, the East and West united for the Church and the Gospel.”

DSA’s founding and future growth

Established in 2025, the DSA was canonically approved by the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. Its five founding congregations are the East Coast-based Dominican Sisters of Amityville, Blauvelt, Caldwell, Hope, and Sparkill. The Association’s shared mission is to preach the Gospel through justice, truth-seeking, and compassion.

San Rafael is the first congregation to join the DSA since the Association was formed by its five founding congregations. During its first year, the DSA brought together sisters and associates through in-person meetings and Zoom sessions to listen, build relationships, and prepare to welcome new members. Its strategic priorities include deepening shared spirituality, exploring creative leadership, strengthening relationships, and advancing Dominican life and mission.

“We are excited to welcome the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael to the Dominican Sisters Association,” said Sister Theresa Rickard, OP, president of the DSA. “Their unique strengths, pioneering spirit, and distinct West Coast character enrich our Association. Their affiliation is a meaningful sign of the energy and possibility before us as we grow a flourishing and resilient Dominican life and mission, now and into the future.”

The DSA Executive Committee includes Sisters Theresa Rickard, OP, president; Mary Hughes, OP; Pat Tavis, OP; Connie Kelly, OP; and Mary Murray, OP.