The Vincentian Family Collaborative Action Program (VFCAP) launched for the first time in the United States on January 28 at the Mother Boniface Spirituality Center in Philadelphia, PA[1. The Mother Boniface Center is a work of the Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity (MSBT), part of the Missionary Cenacle Family]. The three-day program gathered members from various branches of the Vincentian Family to train in the areas of Vincentian heritage, project management, and collaboration. The program consisted of five workshops, or modules. Each module was presented with a different aim, but all designed towards progressively forming participants into action-oriented collaborators steeped in the Vincentian tradition.

Participants re-awakened to the hero’s journey of our founders, walking alongside Vincent, Louise, Frederick, and Rosalie. They then were re-rooted in the methods of contemplation, following “Vincent’s Simple Rules.” After being placed in this spiritual context and rich historical tradition, attendees learned a series of practical applications in conflict resolution, work styles, project management, and stakeholder analysis to apply to their various projects in service to the poor. The focus then shifted back to apostolic reflection, and how to apply this practice to deepen our relationship with each other, those we serve, and God. Finally, participants created a road map to apply all that they have learned, while committing to an action-oriented goal to bring the spirit of collaboration back to their local work.

The program was expertly delivered by Fr. Patrick Griffin, C.M., Sr. Margaret O’Dwyer, D.C., Yasmine Cajuste, and Fr. Joseph Agostino, C.M. The VFCAP has now been delivered in over 10 countries, igniting collaborative action on several continents. Be on the lookout for the program in your region soon!

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