About Us
As Lay Dominicans, also known as Third Order Dominicans, we live out our Christian vocation in the world, while striving to grow in the four pillars of Dominican spirituality: prayer, study, community, and apostolate. We seek to deepen our relationship with God through daily prayer and the study of Sacred Scripture, the teachings of the Church, and the writings of the great Dominican theologians and mystics.Our Mission & Vision
Our vision and mission is to help connect people to Christ
Our vision and mission is to help men and women encounter Christ more deeply through the Dominican way of life. Rooted in prayer, study, community, and apostolic service, we seek to proclaim the truth of the Gospel with clarity and charity. As Lay Dominicans, we strive to contemplate the mysteries of God and share the fruits of that contemplation with the world—bringing the light of Veritas into our families, parishes, workplaces, and daily encounters.
Mission & Purpose
Our mission and purpose flow from the call to preach the Gospel in every circumstance of life. As lay members of the Order of Preachers, we commit ourselves to a disciplined life of prayer, ongoing formation, and faithful participation in the Church’s mission. We seek to cultivate a deep interior life so that our words, actions, and relationships become instruments of truth and charity. Through our families, parishes, workplaces, and civic involvement, we aim to bring Christ’s light into the ordinary rhythms of daily life, serving the Church and the world with a distinctly Dominican heart.
Bishop Robert Barron - The Dominican Moment
Our Team
Our Beliefs
Meeting Times
Upcoming Events
Frequently Asked
Become a Dominican
Our Beliefs & Values
Our beliefs and values arise from the rich spiritual heritage of the Order of Preachers. We hold fast to the truth that every Christian is called to holiness and to the proclamation of the Gospel. As Lay Dominicans, we embrace a life shaped by prayer, disciplined study, authentic community, and apostolic service. We value clarity of thought, charity in speech, and integrity of life, seeking always to reflect Christ in the ordinary circumstances of our daily vocation. Guided by the Church and inspired by St. Dominic’s zeal for souls, we strive to live as faithful witnesses to the enduring power of Veritas.
Prayer
Prayer is the foundation of the Dominican life. As Lay Dominicans, we commit ourselves to daily conversation with God through the Liturgy of the Hours, the Rosary, personal meditation, and participation in the sacramental life of the Church. Prayer shapes our hearts, purifies our intentions, and roots our mission in God’s grace rather than our own strength. It is in prayer that we learn to listen, to contemplate, and to allow Christ to form us into faithful witnesses of His truth.
Study
Study is essential to the Dominican vocation. We seek to deepen our understanding of Scripture, theology, philosophy, and the teachings of the Church so that we may proclaim the Gospel with clarity and conviction. Study is not merely academic; it is a spiritual discipline that opens our minds to the wisdom of God and equips us to engage the world with thoughtful, charitable, and well‑grounded faith. Through ongoing formation, we strive to cultivate a love for truth that transforms both intellect and life.
Community
Community is where the Dominican charism becomes tangible. We gather regularly to pray, learn, and support one another in our shared vocation. In community, we experience the joy of fellowship, the challenge of accountability, and the strength that comes from walking the path of discipleship together. Our fraternity is not simply a social group—it is a spiritual family that encourages each member to grow in holiness and to live the Gospel with integrity and compassion.
Apostolate
Apostolate is the natural fruit of prayer, study, and community. As Lay Dominicans, we bring the light of Christ into the ordinary circumstances of our daily lives—our families, workplaces, parishes, and civic responsibilities. We seek to preach the Gospel not only with words but through the witness of a life shaped by truth and charity. Whether through teaching, service, evangelization, or quiet acts of mercy, we aim to reflect Christ’s love and to participate in the Church’s mission of salvation.
Veritas
Veritas (Truth) is the heart of the Dominican vocation. For Lay Dominicans, Veritas means seeking the truth, loving the truth, and allowing the truth of Christ to shape every dimension of life. It calls us to honesty of mind, integrity of action, and charity in speech. Rooted in Scripture and the teachings of the Church, we strive to reflect God’s truth in our families, workplaces, and communities, becoming living witnesses to the light that dispels darkness and leads souls to Christ.
"Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire."
– Saint Catherine of Siena, Lay Dominican
Who We Are
Our Team & Leadership
Our Lay Dominican chapter meets at St. Monica Parish in Edmond, but our community includes members from Catholic parishes across Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Bartlesville. As part of the Southern Dominican Province (Province of St. Martin de Porres), we share in the mission and charism of the Order of Preachers while living out our vocation in the world. Our chapter is guided by a President who oversees the life and direction of the fraternity, a Vice‑President who supports coordination and formation, and a Secretary who manages communication and records. We are also blessed with an ordained Spiritual Advisor who helps ensure our formation and apostolic work remain rooted in the Dominican tradition. Alongside these roles, our Council collaborates to support the chapter’s organization, hospitality, and ongoing initiatives, fostering a vibrant and faithful Lay Dominican community.
Mr. Cesar Vallejo, OP
Chapter President
Cesar has been married to his wife, Lori, for 33 years; they are blessed with two children and two grandchildren. They are members of St. Monica Parish in Edmond, OK. Cesar consecrated his life to Jesus through Mary following the method of the Third Order Dominican, St. Louis‑Marie de Montfort. His spiritual growth deepened further through the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola (Retreat in Daily Life).
His love for the Dominican Order began when he first encountered the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas, whose clarity of thought and pursuit of truth has shaped the way Cesar understands the faith and the world. That encounter eventually led him to make his permanent profession as a Lay Dominican in 2022.
Cesar is an Electronic Engineer with an MBA and works as a strategic alliances consultant. At St. Monica, he co-founded a men’s ministry program and led it for 11 years. He has served as a facilitator for the parish youth program, OCIA, and—together with Lori—has accompanied engaged couples through the marriage preparation program. He has led Exodus 90 retreats for several years and is a strong promoter of Eucharistic Adoration.
Together with other members of his Dominican chapter, Cesar studies and seeks to live the spirituality found in the writings of the Lay Dominican Servant of God Luisa Piccarreta, working to help bring about the reign of the Divine Will on earth as in heaven.
Mrs. Mary McClernon, OP
Chapter Vicepresident
Mrs. Teresa Tharp, OP
Secretary
Fr. Jude Siciliano, OP
Spiritual Advisor
David Lassiter
Recruiting Coordinator
Kathy Shanon
Inquiry Formation
Catherine Vandiven
Retreat Coordinator
Brett Farley
Archdiocese Relations
Our Chapter's Founder
John was born in Midlothian, TX on December 20th, 1958, to Julia and Joseph McClernon. Even as a little boy he started walking with Jesus and His mother Mary and would say a Hail Mary before hitting a homerun out of the ballpark. In college he attended a Charismatic prayer meeting and was profoundly touched by the Lord, and so began his lifelong love of Jesus. John got his accounting degree and became a CPA. He moved to Dallas to establish residency to continue his education and get his master’s degree. His mother remembers praying to Padre Pio to stay with him throughout his life. When she entered the room John had stayed in and she was overcome with a strong scent of roses (a sign that Padre Pio would answer her prayer). John joined the Community of God’s Delight in Dallas, a large Christian community that had a thriving young adult group, it was there that he met the other Mary in his life, the one destined to be his wife. On their first meeting they spoke about the reality of angels and when Mary walked away John thought “If I was a pioneer going across the country, that is the woman I would want at my side”. And so his adventure began, but John still felt the tug to give his heart to Jesus in the religious life and went to a monastery to discern a life as a monk. While there, he wondered if he would regret not marrying Mary and decided to put it in the Lord’s hands. He asked the Lord to guide him, opened the Bible, and randomly put his finger on Matthew 1:20 "...do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife..." John and Mary were married on June 29, 1984. They had plans for Mary to work while John went to school for his master's. John said to Mary one day “We have made these plans but have not asked the Lord what His plans would be in our lives. With that open door Mary conceived their first of five children, (Christopher, Clare, Catherine, David, and Stephen) who were the biggest gifts of his life. John fulfilled his desire to have a religious vocation and became a Lay Dominican. He dedicated much of his free time to the Saints of the Church which resulted in 9 published books and 9 audio rosary productions. He became an analyst for the Department of Justice. He loved his work and would end up staying with DOJ for the remainder of his life. John was a wonderful and devoted father, husband, Dominican, and author. He always saw the best in people and loved his family throughout the many joys and sorrows of life. When John wasn’t working, he could be found at Church, at a family event, or watching Notre Dame football with his friends.
Mr. John McClernon, OP (1958-2023)
Mary Queen of Preachers Chapter Founder
Upcoming Events
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Lay Dominican?
A Lay Dominican is a Catholic man or woman—single, married, or widowed—who lives the Dominican charism in the world. Lay Dominicans share in the mission of the Order of Preachers through prayer, study, community, and apostolic service, while remaining fully engaged in their ordinary family and professional life.
How is a Lay Dominican different from a Dominican friar or sister?
Friars and sisters live consecrated religious life in community and take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Lay Dominicans live in the world—raising families, working in professions, and serving in parishes—while sharing the same spiritual heritage and mission of preaching the Gospel.
How long does it take to become a fully professed Lay Dominican?
The process usually takes 3–5 years, depending on the chapter and the individual’s readiness. It includes inquiry, candidacy, temporary profession, and finally lifelong profession.
What is the time commitment?
Lay Dominicans attend monthly chapter meetings, pray daily, engage in ongoing study, and participate in apostolic work according to their state in life. The rhythm is designed to be sustainable for people with families, careers, and parish responsibilities.
Is this vocation for clergy or religious only?
No. Lay Dominicans are lay people—men and women living ordinary lives who feel called to the Dominican mission. Permanent deacons may also join, but the vocation is primarily for the laity.
How do I get started?
Attend one of our monthly meetings, speak with our chapter leadership, and begin the inquiry period. You don’t need prior theological training—just a desire to grow in faith and serve Christ with a Dominican heart.
Do Lay Dominicans take vows?
Lay Dominicans make a promise to live according to the Rule of the Lay Fraternities of St. Dominic. This promise is not a religious vow, but a serious and joyful commitment to live the Dominican way of life within one’s secular vocation.
What does formation involve?
Formation is a structured period of learning and spiritual growth. It includes monthly meetings, guided study, prayer, discussion, and mentorship. Formation typically lasts several years and helps discern whether God is calling someone to the Lay Dominican vocation.
Do I need to belong to St. Monica Parish to join?
No, you do not need to belong to St. Monica Parish to join our chapter. We meet monthly for face‑to‑face gatherings in Edmond, but members from across the state of Oklahoma participate fully—either in person or through Zoom when distance or circumstances make travel difficult. Our chapter is open to any Catholic who feels drawn to the Dominican charism and desires to explore the Lay Dominican vocation.
What kind of apostolic work do Lay Dominicans do?
Apostolate varies by person and vocation. Lay Dominicans serve through teaching, evangelization, parish ministries, spiritual accompaniment, works of mercy, and by bringing the light of truth into their professions and daily relationships.
How do I know if God is calling me to this vocation?
A Dominican vocation often begins with a quiet attraction to truth, a desire for deeper prayer, and a love for sharing the Gospel in everyday life. Many people also feel drawn through a devotion or admiration for Dominican saints—men and women like St. Dominic, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Martin de Porres, and St. Rose of Lima, whose lives of preaching, compassion, and intellectual clarity continue to inspire the Church. If you find yourself moved by their example, eager to grow in prayer and study, or longing to bring Christ’s light into your family, parish, and workplace, you may be sensing the beginnings of a Dominican call. The best way to discern is simply to visit a meeting, meet the community, and allow God to speak through the rhythm of Dominican life.