Introduction / History

Christopher Columbus arrived in what is now the Dominican Republic in December of 1492. The Spanish named the land Santo Domingo (currently referring to the capital city) and dedicated it to Saint Dominic as the patron saint. Most of the indigenous Taino people eventually died from diseases like smallpox brought by the Europeans. In 1501, the Spaniards started importing slaves from Africa to meet their need for slave labor. Spanish men married African or indigenous women early on, and the today most people of the Dominican Republic are mixed-race.

The vast majority of Mixed Dominicans remain in the Dominican Republic, but their diaspora includes nine other countries, including Spain, which has the largest Dominican diaspora in Europe. They are most likely to be found in Madrid and Catalonia. Spain was their mother country, and a small number came during colonial days.

What Are Their Lives Like?

No matter where the live, Mixed Dominicans have a vibrant culture, which blends Spanish, indigenous, and African elements. They are famous for their musical style, merengue. Dominicans also enjoy salsa and bachata music. Their cuisine involves plenty of rice with a meat dish, fried plantains and salad. Their paintings have a strong European flavor. Dominicans value attractive clothes, and their country has a yearly fashion week. Baseball is their national sport, and Dominicans are famous for their excellence in this sport.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Mixed Dominicans are usually Roman Catholic, but they also have a strong Protestant population, even in Spain. Children ask their parents for a blessing, imitating certain patterns in the Bible. They also ask for blessings from patron saints.

What Are Their Needs?

Mixed Dominicans need to put all their faith in Jesus Christ. They need total devotion to the only savior. They can become Christ’s ambassadors to the lost wherever they live.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Dominican families and churches, drawing them closer to Christ.
Pray that soon Dominicans will disciple others and teach them to disciple others.
Pray for their spiritual and physical needs to be met and for them to give God glory for it.

Scripture Prayers for the Dominican in Spain.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominicans
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominicans_in_Spain