Pope Francis congratulates the  Society of Saint Vincent de Paul  (SVDP) of Damascus on its 150th anniversary.

Apostolic Nunciature of Syria                                                     Damascus, 14 December 2013

Dear Mr. Sargi,

His Excellence Bishop Angelo Becciu, The Substitute of the Secretary of the Vatican, has asked me to convey the following letter which he addresses you in the name of the Holy Father Francis:

“ Mr. Riad SARGI

The President of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul – Damascus / Syria

On the occasion of the 150 anniversary of its establishment, His Holiness Pope Francis offers the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Damascus his warmest congratulations. The objectives and activities of the Society form a tangible expression to what the Mother Church means towards the poor , the children, the youths, the elderly people, the prisoners and the patients, in particular at these difficult moments that the Country passes through. For better achievements of these objectives, the Holy Father encourages the Society’s members to live a deep communion among themselves, to keep firm in their faith, and ardent in the charity, nourished with the word of God and in living the sacraments. He entrusts them to the intercession of Saint Vincent de Paul, and to the maternal protection of the Virgin Mary, the Pope grants them his blessings, and through them to all the People who benefit from their work.

+ Angelo Becciu

I assure you that I remember you all in my prayers, and offer Mr. Sargi the best expression of my feelings through the Lord.

+ Arcbishop Mario ZENARI

Apostolic Nuncio