Alter Christus

Stained Glass Window from St. Dominic's Church in Washington, D.C. Photo: Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P.

Stained Glass Window from St. Dominic’s Church in Washington, D.C.
Photo: Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P.

The Sacred Heart linking Christ to priests is a popular symbol of the priesthood. In the rite of ordination the phrase “Alter Christus” (“another Christ”) reminds us that, although Christ himself is present to his Church, the priest acts as “another Christ” by virtue of his ordination.

The above excerpt is from Reflections of Dominican Spirituality: The Windows of St. Dominic Church, Washington, D.C. by Dr. Mary Moran.

The Dominican friars are called to preach the Gospel in every age and in every place it is needed. Through preaching, teaching, pastoral ministry, and the formation of new friars, they work to bring the truth of Christ to a world searching for meaning and hope.

Reflections like this one are made possible because of the faithful support of friends like you. Your generosity helps sustain the friars in their mission to proclaim the Gospel, serve the Church, and form future preachers of the faith.

Support the preaching mission of the Dominican friars and help ensure that the light of the Gospel continues to reach hearts for generations to come.

The Latest from the Friars

The Solemnity of our Holy Father St. Dominic

Discover the life and mission of St. Dominic, founder of the Order of Preachers, and learn how his love for God, truth, and humanity...

Around the Province | Summer 2026

Photos from life in the Dominican Province of St. Joseph.

Spiritual Fearlessness

Secular writers often pit science against religion. Religious writers sometimes paint modern universities as fiercely hostile to any...