The Dominican Order, also known as the Order of Preachers, are the original founders of Saint Martin’s Academy. As such we strive for our ethos at school to match as closely as possible to the spirituality of our Dominican heritage, including our House System at school.

The Dominicans have a profound and enduring devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. From its inception in the early 13th century, the Order has looked to Mary as its patroness, guide, and protector, weaving Marian devotion into its spirituality, mission, and daily life.

Saint Dominic, the founder of the Order, is credited with establishing this deep connection. According to tradition, during his mission to combat the Albigensian heresy, Saint Dominic experienced an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary. She presented him with the Rosary as a spiritual weapon for preaching the Gospel and inspiring conversion. This event marked the beginning of the Dominican promotion of the Rosary, a devotion that became central to Catholic life and remains a hallmark of the Dominican charism.

The Dominican devotion to Our Lady reflects the Order’s mission to preach about Christ with the same love, humility, and zeal that Mary exemplifies. Through the Rosary, theological insights, and daily prayers, the Dominicans have upheld Mary as a beacon of faith and intercession, inspiring countless souls to draw closer to her Son.

For this reason, our House Groups are inspired by the places & stories in the Gospels when Our Lady reached out and bought people closer to her Son.

BETHLEHEM

The Nativity of the Lord at Bethlehem – Luke 2:1-20

Bethlehem is where Mary gave birth to Jesus, a moment of hope and new beginnings. Her humility and openness to God’s plan in such a simple setting exemplify trust, courage, and welcoming new life. In Dominican education, Bethlehem represents enlightenment and growth, teaching students to embrace opportunities, act with hope, and bring light to others through their actions.

CANA

The Nativity of the Lord – Luke 2:1-20

Cana is where Mary prompted Jesus’ first miracle at a wedding, saying, “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5). This shows her intercession, guidance, and trust in God’s power to transform situations. In the Dominican spirit of using gifts to serve others, Cana encourages students to bring positivity, encourage collaboration, and be agents of change in their communities.

 

HEBRON

The Visitation of Our Lady to Elizabeth – Luke 1:39-56

Hebron is an ancient city in Judea, at the foot of Mount Hebron & known as a place of faith and covenant in the Bible. While it is not certain, Hebron is considered to be where Mary visited her sister Elizabethin Lukes Gospel. It represents a place of hope and joy, as at seeing Mary and the child she carried, the child within Elizabeth lept for joy. From the Visitation, students can learn to bring joy, support, and kindness to others while trusting in God’s plan.

JERUSALEM

The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple – Luke 2:22-38

Jerusalem is the holy city where Mary witnessed many key moments in Jesus’ life, including his teachings and ultimately his Passion. It is also associated with the Presentation, when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to consecrate him to God. This act reflects obedience, faithfulness, and devotion—qualities Mary embodied. Linked to the Dominican heritage of seeking truth and serving others, Jerusalem encourages students to act with courage, stand up for justice, and serve their communities faithfully.

NAZARETH

The Annunciation of the Birth of Jesus – Luke 1:26-28

Nazareth, Mary’s hometown, was a quiet, humble place where she lived before Jesus’ ministry began. It is closely linked to the Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel told Mary she would bear the Son of God, and she responded with trust and humility: “Let it be done unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). Reflecting Dominican values of contemplation and action, Nazareth teaches students the importance of humility, faith, and embracing their role in making a positive difference in the world, even in everyday life.