Master of the Order

The Master of the Order serves as the successor of Saint Dominic and the primary source of unity for the worldwide Dominican family. Unlike traditional “abbots,” the Master is viewed as a “teacher” and servant-leader, holding broad authority over friars and nuns while remaining subject to the General Chapter. Today, this role is held for a nine-year term, during which the Master is tasked with visiting the global community twice to ensure that the mission of preaching remains vibrant across every province and monastery.

The current incumbent, Father Gerard Francisco Timoner III, is the 88th Master and the first Asian to lead the Order in its 800-year history. Elected in 2019, Fr. Timoner emphasizes that preaching is not merely a task, but the core identity of the Dominican brothers and sisters. His leadership focuses on “renewed communion” and trust in Providence, calling on the global family to serve the modern Church with courageous commitment and shared discernment.