While located in Chicago, members of the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill Generalate were active participants in the Chicago Vincentian Family.  When the generalate offices were moved to the Pittsburgh Diocese in May of 2017 it became a dream to support similar gatherings in south western Pennsylvania.  While still in Chicago the sisters began collaborating with the Vincentian Family International Office.  After two years of information sharing and planning with leaders of the Vincentian Family branches in the two neighboring dioceses where the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill have a strong presence, Pittsburgh and Greensburg, the first large gathering of members was held at Seton Hill University on March 30, 2019.

One hundred and eleven participants gathered for the day of prayer, input, reflection and sharing.   Family members participating represented those from the Association of Ladies of Charity and the Saint Vincent DePaul Society in both dioceses, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill, plus students and staff from Seton Hill University.  The morning session held a keynote presentation by Sister Paule Freeburg, DC titled “Collaboration in Charity – Call to Service.” After Eucharistic Liturgy and lunch, the afternoon focus was upon getting to know who is serving in the local area.  There was a panel presentation by representatives of each of the groups followed by time for table discussion.  Overall, the day was a wonderful beginning for future shared formation and collaboration.  Many evaluations asked for more time to interact between participants.  This will be a goal for future gatherings.