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Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Vincentian Family Office
The international Vincentian Family prepares to celebrate a very special milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Vincentian Family Office.
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News:
From Fine Dining to Finding Emergency Accommodation for Young People in Crisis
Nightstop coordinator, Lily Froidevaux, will ‘fight like hell’ to get young people the support they deserve. Lily didn’t start in social care. She came from the world of fine dining—managing top restaurants in Paris and selling high-end wines to elite clients. But behind the polished hospitality career was a deeper calling she couldn’t ignore.
St. John’s Volunteers Build Home and Hope in Belize
Volunteers from St. John’s parish and school traveled to Belize City this October to construct the Manning and Marilyn McKay House for a local family in need. Guided by faith and inspired by the McKays’ legacy of service, the team joined Hand in Hand Ministries to bring safe housing and a sense of community to Ms. Eugenie, Mr. Mario, and their young son. read more
Confronting Racial Inequalities in Housing and Homelessness
This Black History Month, Graeme Browne, Floating Support Service Manager of DePual UK, reflects on the intersectionality of race and homelessness, and what drives his commitment to supporting young people facing housing insecurity. read more
Apostolic Exhortation “Dilexit te”: Reflection on Chapter IV
Chapter IV of “Dilexi te” traces the history of the Social Doctrine of the Church, from Rerum novarum to the present day, showing that the poor are active subjects of faith and thought. It affirms that the Church is only faithful to Christ when it shares their destiny and that charity, a transforming force, must heal the structural causes of poverty. read more
Formation:
Compassion Without Borders (part 5 and Last)
The Vincentian Family carries forward a charism of organized charity, showing that collaboration magnifies impact. Across schools, parishes, hospitals, and advocacy, branches unite to offer food, education, legal aid, and spiritual care. Rooted in a spirituality of encounter, this shared mission turns hope into strategy, ensuring no neighbor is abandoned along the road.
November 13: Feast Day of St. Agostina Pietrantoni
"Let us work now; one day we will rest." - St. Agostina Pietrantoni read more
The Life of Count of Aljezur and its Impact on the SSVP in Brazil and Portugal
The Count of Aljezur was an outstanding Vincentian layman who devoted his life to the service of Christian charity and the expansion ... read more
The History of the Women’s Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Argentina
Founded in Córdoba in 1864, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Argentina grew as an independent, women-led Catholic group ... read more
Reflections:
Apostolic Exhortation “Dilexit te”: Reflection on Chapter IV
Chapter IV of “Dilexi te” traces the history of the Social Doctrine of the Church, from Rerum novarum to the present day, showing that the poor are active subjects of faith and thought. It affirms that the Church is only faithful to Christ when it shares their destiny and that charity, a transforming force, must heal the structural causes of poverty.
A Vincentian View: The Wisdom of God
Can a day go by when we are not driven to wonder, “Why did God let this happen?” read more
Union of All God’s Sons and Daughters
The body of Jesus is the temple that human hands did not build. It is the cause and the sign of the union of all God’s sons and ... read more
Apostolic Exhortation “Dilexit te”: Reflection on Chapter III
Chapter III of “Dilexi te” describes the Church as a servant of the poor, inheriting a history of compassion that heals, liberates, ... read more
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On November 6, We Celebrate the Memory of the 20th Century Spanish Martyrs
On November 6, the Catholic Church in Spain remembers the martyrs who gave their lives during the religious persecution of the 20th century, among them dozens of members of the Vincentian Family.
On October 5, We Celebrate the Feast of Blessed Alberto Marvelli
Blessed Alberto Marvelli was a young Italian layman whose deep Eucharistic spirituality, love for the poor, and commitment to social and political service made him a powerful witness to the Gospel in the modern world. A member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, he exemplified Vincentian values by integrating prayer, charity, and justice in every aspect of his short but impactful life.
On October 3, We Celebrate the Feast of Blessed Josef Mayr-Nusser
Blessed Josef Mayr-Nusser was a Catholic layman, husband, father, and Vincentian who refused to swear loyalty to Hitler, choosing death over violating his conscience and the First Commandment. His life and martyrdom stand as a powerful witness to the sanctity of the laity, the primacy of God, and the courage of living the Gospel without compromise.
The History of the Women’s Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Argentina
Founded in Córdoba in 1864, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Argentina grew as an independent, women-led Catholic group committed to serving the poor outside the international SSVP. Rooted in Vincentian spirituality, it blends personal charity with social outreach and continues its mission today with both women and men.
In Service and Spirit: The Journey of the Sisters of St. Martha of Antigonish
Founded in 1900, the Sisters of St. Martha of Antigonish grew from a domestic service congregation into a vital force in health care, education, and social outreach. Rooted in the spirit of St. Martha, their legacy is one of quiet service and faithful dedication.
Depaul UK: Tackling Youth Homelessness with Dignity, Compassion, and Innovation
Depaul UK reminds us that youth homelessness is not inevitable. With the right help, compassion, and opportunity, every young person can build a future of dignity and hope.
The Life of Count of Aljezur and its Impact on the SSVP in Brazil and Portugal
The Count of Aljezur was an outstanding Vincentian layman who devoted his life to the service of Christian charity and the expansion of the Vincentian charism. A man of deep faith and commitment, his legacy lives on as an example of dedication to others and fidelity to the Vincentian mission.
Barbe Angiboust, a Quiet Daughter of Charity
Sister Barbe Angiboust, a seventeenth-century French peasant woman, devoted her life as a Daughter of Charity to serving the poor, the sick, and the marginalized with steadiness, humility, and self-giving. Her work in hospitals, schools, and prisons made her one of the pillars of the Company.
Henriette Gesseaume, a Daughter of Charity in Light and Shadow
Henrietta Gesseaume, an intelligent and impulsive peasant, was one of the most active and devoted Daughters of Charity, serving the poor with generosity despite her temperament. Her life was shaped by a profound vocation, culminating in her heroic offering to assist the wounded soldiers at Calais.
Pilgrims of Hope
It is difficult as we close this first quarter of the 21st century and the Jubilee year of Hope, to stay focused on the great hope of our faith and the belief so beautifully expressed in Dilexi Te (Pope Leo XIV, 2025) that God loves us and by serving people living in poverty, we love God.
Against Homelessness: a Vincentian Commitment at the UN Since 2017
Since 2017, the Daughters of Charity, in conjunction with the Vincentian Family, have been strongly committed to the United Nations to give voice to homeless people, who are often invisible in public policies and absent from major international decisions.
One NGO Vincentian’s View Of The United Nations
As a brand new NGO Society of St. Vincent de Paul representative from the United States to the United Nations, I look at my role through the eyes of a Vincentian.
From Fine Dining to Finding Emergency Accommodation for Young People in Crisis
Nightstop coordinator, Lily Froidevaux, will ‘fight like hell’ to get young people the support they deserve. Lily didn’t start in social care. She came from the world of fine dining—managing top restaurants in Paris and selling high-end wines to elite clients. But behind the polished hospitality career was a deeper calling she couldn’t ignore.
Confronting Racial Inequalities in Housing and Homelessness
This Black History Month, Graeme Browne, Floating Support Service Manager of DePual UK, reflects on the intersectionality of race and homelessness, and what drives his commitment to supporting young people facing housing insecurity.
In Tanzania, a Home Becomes a Tangible Sign of Hope
In Mpepai, Ruvuma region of Tanzania, the 13 Houses for the Jubilee project is about to complete a home for a vulnerable family of ten. They will move from a fragile mud shelter to a safe, sustainable house. The active involvement of the parents and children has strengthened their sense of belonging and hope for a dignified, stable future.
Places of Elizabeth Ann Seton 7 – Staten Island, New York
The Bayley summer estate on Staten Island provided more than escape from city life— it became a spiritual retreat where Elizabeth found solace in prayer and nature, especially during times of loss.
Places of Elizabeth Ann Seton 6 – Craigdon, New York City
In addition to his residence in the city, Elizabeth’s husband William Seton acquired, in 1784, a property which at that time was a country place several miles from the heart of New York. He called it Craigdon.
Places of Elizabeth Ann Seton 5 – Trinity Church, New York City
As a devout Episcopalian, Elizabeth regularly attended Trinity Church at the head of Wall Street (75 Broadway).
Issue #7 of FamVin News is Here!
The Vincentian Family Communications Commission has released the seventh issue of the bulletin “FamVin News”. Click to see It! ☝️
A Pilgrim of Hope: Special Issue of Famvin Newsletter Honoring Pope Francis
This special issue of the Vincentian Family Bulletin honors the life and legacy of Pope Francis, highlighting his deep connection with the Vincentian charism and his tireless service to the poor. It offers reflections, key documents, and encounters that celebrate his impact on the Church and the world.
Fifth Issue of Famvin Newsletter Is Now Available!
The Famvin Communications Commission has released the fifth issue of the bulletin “FamVin News”. Click to see It! ☝️
Other Featured Series
Vincentian Dictionary
Vincentian Dictionary: Law (Part 2)
Biblical and Catholic traditions see law as a divine gift rooted in covenant and love, fulfilled in Christ through justice, mercy, and inner transformation. Catholic thought deepens this by grounding law in reason, human dignity, and eternal truth, aiming at holiness and the common good.
400th Anniversary Jubilee
Pilgrimage of the Relics of Saint Vincent de Paul in Rio Inspires Charity and Service to the Poor
In September 2025, the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro hosted the pilgrimage of Saint Vincent de Paul’s relics. With celebrations in churches and communities, the event marked 400 years of the Congregation of the Mission and renewed the Vincentian charism of service to the poor.
Media
November 13: Feast Day of St. Agostina Pietrantoni
“Let us work now; one day we will rest.” – St. Agostina Pietrantoni
Seton’s 50th Anniversary
50th Anniversary of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Foundress of the Sisters of Charity and first Saint Born in the United States
The Vincentian Family celebrated the 50th anniversary of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s canonization at her Basilica with a Mass presided over by Fr. Tomaž Mavrič, CM, and various commemorative events. Exhibits, reenactments, testimonies, and gatherings in Emmitsburg highlighted Mother Seton’s unity and Vincentian legacy in the U.S. and Canada.
Systemic Change
The Rule of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and Systemic Change
The Rule of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul emphasizes a commitment to systemic change by addressing both immediate needs and the root causes of poverty through charity and justice. Guided by their values of human dignity, solidarity, and the preferential option for the poor, Vincentians strive to transform lives, foster self-sufficiency, and advocate for a more equitable and compassionate society.
Podcasts
A Life Given in Love: The Story of Saint Gianna Beretta Molla in Five Podcasts
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla was a woman of deep faith, fierce compassion, and quiet heroism. A pediatrician, wife, mother, and saint, Gianna lived in 20th-century Italy but left a timeless legacy of sacrificial love.
A Weekly Reflection with Vincent
Going From Here To There • A Weekly Reflection with Vincent
"O Dieu! What a reason the Company has for observing its Rules faithfully; to do what the Son of God came into the world to do! That there should be a Company, and that it should be the Company of the Mission, composed of poor men, and that it should be entirely...
A Weekly Reflection with Louise
Listening and Respecting the Views of the Poor • A Reflection with Louise de Marillac
Louise de Marillac advises the Sisters at Nantes hospital to season food simply and prepare nourishing meals for seriously ill patients, emphasizing the importance of meeting the needs and preferences of the poor patients themselves. The reflection warns against imposing personal judgments on the poor and highlights the need for empathy and dialogue to truly understand their situation.
A Weekly Reflection with Ozanam
Charity, the Most Beautiful Title • A Reflection with Ozanam
Am I convinced that the first and most important thing is charity, and without it nothing else makes sense?
Vincentian Prayer Images
Vincentian Prayer Images – Art By Vincentians 47
Share your thoughts on a weekly image of artwork made by members of the Vincentian Family.
Firewood for the Soul
Firewood for the Soul: Embracing Conflicting Point of Views
A weekly reflection for all the Vincentian Family, from Australia.
The Rosalie Projects: My Battle Horse
The “My battle horse” project aimed to offer equine therapy sessions to residents of the “Résidence La Chesnaye” nursing home, in order to improve their physical and psychological well-being through therapeutic contact with horses.
SVdP Contemplation
Contemplation: The First and Final Principle
The Vincentian vocation reveals an irony: by serving others, we grow in holiness ourselves. Frédéric Ozanam taught that charity unites love of God, neighbor, and self—not as selfishness, but as gratitude for God’s gift of life. True love of neighbor flows from divine love within us, making every act of service an act of love for God.
War Conflicts
Sister Mary’s testimony during the Opening Vigil of the Jubilee of Consecrated Life
The provincial superior of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Jeanne Antide Thouret of the East – Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Sudan, South Sudan and Ethiopia, all countries involved in armed conflicts and in a situation of deep social crisis – shared her moving and hopeful testimony during the opening vigil of the Jubilee of Consecrated Life on 8 October 2025 in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Second Vincentian Convocation
Keep the Fire Burning to Be Pilgrims of Hope: Reflection #2
This month we reflect on the origins and growth of the Vincentian Family. Since 1995, when Fr. Maloney invited the four historical branches to meet annually, a new chapter began. Today, 180 branches serve in 167 countries, united by the charism of St. Vincent de Paul. We celebrate our achievements, collaboration, and ongoing formation, while renewing our call to serve with hope and commitment.
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