Saint Dominic Shirt

For this design, we wanted to include many details that tell the story of Saint Dominic.

The dog carrying the flaming torch comes from a dream Saint Dominic’s mother had before he was born. She dreamed of a black and white dog carrying a flame that would set the world ablaze. The dog would eventually become a symbol associated with the Dominican Order, which Saint Dominic founded. There is also the famous Latin word Domini Canes, meaning “Dogs of the Lord.”

The burning books at the bottom reference the Miracle of Fanjeaux. During Saint Dominic’s preaching against false teachings, his writings and opposing writings were put to the test by fire. According to tradition, Saint Dominic’s writings miraculously came out unharmed while the others were consumed by the flames. That’s why Saint Dominic is shown holding the Bible, while the books below him are covered with false symbols and burning away.

And of course, my favorite part of the design is the Rosary. Instead of simply having Saint Dominic hold it, I wanted to emphasize how important it was to his mission, so the Rosary is wrapped completely around him.

According to Dominican tradition, while Saint Dominic was struggling against the spread of heresy, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him and gave him with the Rosary, not simply as a devotion, but as a spiritual weapon, teaching him to combine prayer with meditation on the mysteries of Christ’s life. Saint Dominic then began preaching and spreading this devotion, which would become a major part of the Dominican Order and the Catholic Church today.

The rosary is such a beautiful and powerful prayer and I'm so happy to finally release this design. Thank you all so much for the support! God bless!

Measured flat, in inches.