Christus Dominus Est is a lay Catholic brotherhood dedicated to helping young men imitate Christ in order to grow in virtue and hold onto the faith throughout their high-school and college years.
Young men face a growing crisis, bombarded by the allure of filth, pride, and countless vices that promise fulfillment but leave only emptiness. Many are tempted to grow in selfishness and reject discipline, spiraling down a path of confusion and spiritual isolation. In contrast, CDE stands as a stronghold of Catholic identity, grounded in truth, virtue, and brotherhood.
It earnestly calls young men to reject the false promises of the world and instead pursue holiness, courage, and the timeless values of the faith.
Whether being called to the priesthood, fatherhood, or any other vocation, there is no doubt of a treacherous pilgrimage that lies ahead.
It is a necessity for young men to stand and take up their cross alongside Christ and venture through the long and narrow path toward the gates of heaven. As brothers, we must learn to avoid the snares that lie ahead and recognize the snare in which we place ourselves. Just as St. Joseph, we must remain humble, pure, and charitable, even amongst doubt, confusion, and frustration in God’s will.
"Let us allow ourselves to be 'infected' by the silence of St. Joseph. We need it greatly in a world that is often too noisy, that does not favor recollection and listening to the voice of God."
- Pope Benedict XVI
Grow in manhood and in brotherhood with other young men.
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CDE is dedicated to serving young men and Christ through work and brotherhood.
We do this by the following:
Forming young men to have a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Christ.
Reflecting on the Holy Family in order to live out the necessity of aiding our own families in holiness.
Growing in devotion to St. Joseph.
Spiritual + Corporal Works of Mercy.
Encouraging formation in both philosophy and theology.
Praying the Roman Breviary - Giving your day to God from the beginning until the end.
Frequent use of the Sacraments - Holy Communion + Confession.
Praying the Rosary.
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CDE consists of three primary small groups: Anima Christi, Servi Christi, and Ave Christus Rex (see further details on Spiritual Growth page). Each of which emphasize on a particular characteristic of St. Joseph.
Every young man has his own significant spiritual needs. A young man’s needs, on one end, may extend to a greater focus on the contemplative life. Or, conversely, may extend to a greater focus on philosophy and theology.
While each group shares certain characteristics with the others, each group has its own distinct focus.
All new members are initially placed into Servi Christi, as it is our principal group and our primary focus. If a member, over time, feels as if he is called to join either Anima Christ or Ave Christus Rex, he may purse membership in either of those groups.
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What is it? The investiture is the action of formally investing a man into Christus Dominus Est. The man swears an oath to uphold the seven laws and virtues of St. Joseph and to serve their community and God with integrity.
What are the requirements?
Discernment: A man must go throughout the spiritual seasons of his life discerning if this is what God is calling him to do.
Obedience: A man must show obedience to the laws of St. Joseph.
Love for Christ: A man must demonstrate that he is willing to put others before him, reflecting Christ’s love in all that he does. He must be willing to become selfless, pure, and humble.
Must be 16yrs or older.