What did the Dominican Order do?

Answer 1

The Order of Dominicans was founded by Saint Dominic who lived in the late 12th century and died in the early 13th century. The order observed the customary Roman Catholic vows of poverty, chastity and obedience but with particular emphasis on poverty, although the order later concentrated on preaching with the motto "praise, bless and preach". His order also included friars (brothers), nuns and ordinary folk known as Lay Dominicans. The Dominicans friars are often called "Black Friars" because of their habit (manner of religious dress), which consisted of a large black cloak over their white robe. During the early 13th century the Spanish king of the time sent Dominic on a mission to Denmark to find a bride for the young crown prince. When Dominic arrived in Denmark he was appalled at the lack of religious order there. He found many "heresies" being preached across the country to the extent many of them no longer acknowledged the pope in Rome or any of the priestly hierarchy. He saw a definite need for proper preaching methods. When he returned to Spain, he started to build a new order with a small group of followers. He petitioned the pope of the time Innocent III, and in 1217 he was given permission to form his new Order of Preachers.