The Dominican Monastery, Ibadan

 
The Dominican Monastery in Ibadan, Oyo State is a community of Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena who dedicate their lives to a contemplative life of prayer, study, and service. The monastery was established in 1946 by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima, Portugal, but it later became independent in 1948. Since then, the community has been active in Nigeria and Ghana, as well as in other African nations.

The Ibadan Monastery is situated on a hilltop and surrounded by trees, providing a serene and tranquil environment for visitors. The monastery comprises a chapel, a bell tower, a library, a refectory, cells, and other facilities. Here, the sisters live a life of simplicity, poverty, and obedience to God, inspired by the Dominican spirit of preaching and study.

The sisters receive frequent visits from priests, bishops, and other religious leaders who celebrate mass, administer the sacraments, provide guidance, and give talks on various topics. They also welcome visitors who seek a deeper connection with their faith or those who want to discern their vocation to religious life.

The Dominican Monastery offers various programs and services to visitors, including retreats, spiritual guidance, and training programs for catechists. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in daily mass, liturgical services, as well as the recitation of the divine office in Latin.

The monastery is also involved in various charitable activities, including the provision of educational scholarships, healthcare services, and other forms of social support. They also operate a bread bakery and a poultry farm, which are sources of income that support their work.

In conclusion, the Dominican Monastery in Ibadan is a peaceful and spiritual place that provides a haven for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with their faith. It is a place where visitors can find guidance, spiritual growth, and an opportunity to serve others.