Development of a strong prayer life is a goal of the Daughters of Holy Mary of the Heart of Jesus. And, as contemplative and missionary sisters, the formation of children and youth is at the core of their apostolic efforts.
Their religious family came to the United States from Spain in 2011, and since then they have offered an opportunity to seek, know, love and serve the Lord in a prayer movement called DOYMAR.
This prayer movement, begun in Spain in 1984, was the inspiration of their foundress, Mother María de Jesús Velarde, who, guided by the pontificate of Pope St. John Paul II, saw a need for young people to enter into a life of prayer, to become disciples who recognize their need for a relationship with Jesus.
“DOYMAR” is a Spanish acronym that translates to “Prayerful and Marian-Apostolic Disciples of the Redemption,” summarizing the identity that the sisters strive to help form in children and youth.
In October 2020, the sisters brought DOYMAR to the Diocese of Columbus, at Westerville St. Paul the Apostle Church.
The prayer movement seeks to facilitate a personal encounter with God in prayer before the Eucharist. Sisters hold DOYMAR encounters every month for different age groups (first- through fifth-grade girls, sixth- through eighth-grade girls, high school girls and college-age women).
During each gathering, the sisters give a formative talk, guide participants through steps of prayer and allow them to share their faith and apply it to their daily lives. DOYMAR is a time to sit at the feet of Jesus, listen to Him and speak to Him, with Mary as intercessor and guide.
The Daughters of Holy Mary of the Heart of Jesus want to support parents in their mission and help them kindle the love of God in their daughters’ hearts. The sisters also want to help young adults find the lasting love and meaning that only the Lord can give.
In 2022, the sisters will hold DOYMAR at St. Paul Church on the following days:
First- through fifth-grade girls: 9:30-11 a.m. Saturdays Jan. 15, Feb. 12, March 12, April 2, May 7 and June 4.
Sixth- through eighth-grade girls: 4-5:30 p.m. Fridays.
High school girls and college-age women: 6-8 p.m. Fridays Jan. 14, Feb. 11, March 11, April 1, May 6 and June 3.
For more information about the Daughters of Holy Mary of the Heart of Jesus, their charism, spirituality and mission, as well as their DOYMAR worldwide prayer movement, visit www.hsmcj.org.
To participate in DOYMAR or learn about other opportunities offered by the sisters, call 740-346-2625.