Dominic established a democratic form of government-a form often lacking in efficiency, but one in which, through a collaborative process of self-government, a person's mind and heart might develop freely.  Dominic based the government of  his Order on the principle of elections and representation. The group elected its leaders and entrusted to them the execution of the will of chapters and necessary decision-making between chapters. The purpose of such a structure was to provide unity, to facilitate service and to foster the common good.

In the Dominican tradition of governance, members are elected to serve the community as leaders for a certain number of years. In 2003, the community in its general chapter, the highest governing authority, elected to leadership Sr. Patricia Simpson for six years. Sr.Patricia is the principal authority of the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael. To assist her four sisters were elected to the leadership team: Sr. Raya Hanlon and Sr. Lois Silva as full time first and second councilors and Sr. Maureen McInerney and Sr. Margaret Diener.

These five women form the congregational Council which guides and administers the congregation.

Similarly, there is a local government in the convents which promotes the spirit and goals of the congregation as a whole. The moderator (generally elected by the local community) provides the service of leadership in encouraging each sister to develop and deepen the community and prayer life of the local house, and to take responsibility for the management of the house affairs.

Dominican Sisters of San Rafael
1520 Grand Ave.
San Rafael, CA 94901-2236
TEL: 415-453-8303
FAX: 415-453-8367
mail : info@sanrafaelop.org