The Daughters of the King: A Ministry of Prayer, Service, and Evangelism
The Episcopal Church is blessed with numerous ministries that embody our call to discipleship, one of which is the Daughters of the King (DoK). With a rich history rooted in prayer, service, and evangelism, the Daughters of the King offer a unique and inspiring way for women to live out their baptismal covenant.
Who Are the Daughters of the King?
Founded in 1885 by Margaret J. Franklin, the Daughters of the King is an international order of lay and ordained women in the Anglican, Episcopal, Lutheran, and Roman Catholic traditions. Members take a lifelong vow to uphold a Rule of Life, which centers on daily prayer, service, and the sharing of God's love.
The DoK's emblem, a cross inscribed with the words Magnanimiter Crucem Sustine, meaning “With heart, mind, and spirit uphold and bear the cross,” reflects their commitment to carrying Christ’s cross in their lives and ministries.
A Ministry of Prayer
At the heart of the Daughters of the King is an unwavering dedication to prayer. Members intercede for their parishes, communities, and the wider church. This commitment not only strengthens their spiritual lives but also acts as a cornerstone of support for the church.
In a world that often feels fragmented, their quiet, persistent prayers remind us of the power of faith to bind us together. Through prayer, the Daughters invite others into God’s transformative presence, nurturing both personal and communal spiritual growth.
A Ministry of Service
Service is another defining feature of the DoK’s ministry. Members often serve their parishes and communities through outreach programs, pastoral care, and support of clergy and laity alike.
For example, at The Episcopal Church of St. Mary Magdalene & St. Martin, where we are blessed with a vibrant community outreach program, the spirit of the Daughters aligns beautifully with our mission to serve Christ in all people. Whether supporting local shelters, organizing food distributions, or aiding those in need, the Daughters bring their vow of service to life in practical, impactful ways.
A Ministry of Evangelism
The Daughters of the King embrace evangelism not as a loud proclamation but as a gentle invitation. Through their lives of devotion and action, they reflect Christ’s love, encouraging others to explore their faith. Their ministry reminds us that evangelism often begins with relationships—showing care, listening, and being present for others in their spiritual journeys.
Joining the Daughters of the King
Becoming a Daughter of the King is not just about joining a ministry; it is about embracing a way of life. Prospective members participate in a discernment process, which includes study and prayer to understand the Rule of Life and its commitments. This thoughtful process ensures that each woman who takes her vow does so with intention and a clear sense of purpose.
A Call to All of Us
The Daughters of the King exemplify a life of courageous discipleship—prayerful, servant-hearted, and grounded in Christ. Their witness calls each of us to reflect on how we, too, might deepen our own faith journeys.
Whether or not you are called to join the Daughters of the King, their ministry invites us all to live lives of intentional prayer, compassionate service, and humble evangelism. How might you bear the cross of Christ more magnanimously in your own life?
Let us give thanks for the Daughters of the King and for their steadfast dedication to the church, the world, and to Christ our Savior. May their example inspire us all to live more fully into our baptismal promises.
Learn more about the Daughters of the King: If you feel called to learn more about this ministry or support their work, you can watch this informational video, A Closer Walk With God or visit The Daughters of the King website.
