Stained glass window from St. Dominic’s Church in Washington, D.C. Photo by Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P.

The fifteenth century was the age of exploration, and the Dominicans became active missionaries to the newly discovered lands. An important advocate of Christopher Columbus’ great venture of 1492 was Bishop Diego de Deza, the Dominican bishop of Palencia, whose own goal was to establish missions along Columbus’ proposed route. Diego persuaded local Dominicans to plead with Queen Isabella for financing for Columbus’ expedition, this securing his own objective as well. Isabella I of Spain (1451 -1504) was known as the “Catholic Queen” because of her strong faith. Her confessors were Dominican friars, and she ensured that Dominican monasteries and convents in Spain were protected from attack. Isabella’s patronage of Columbus made possible his discovery of America; this great legacy is noted by Columbus’ ship in the background.

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