The International Structure, implemented for the biennium (2021-2022), is comprised of many Vincentians of all nationalities, which reflects the SSVP’s spirit of “doing well that which is good ” (Saint Vincent de Paul).

Behind every work of service being carried out by the Council General International (CGI), there is a Vincentian who, with the help of God, is committed to increase this “network of Charity” and to bring hope and love to everyone around the world, especially those suffering from poverty in any of its multiple forms because, “God who draws the clouds together to scatter the lightning, also draws souls together to radiate love” (Blessed F. Ozanam).

It is our hope to fulfill this desire of Bl. Frédéric Ozanam, especially in this new year 2021 in the wake of last year’s challenging times, arisen from the health crisis triggered by Covid-19. May God enlighten the members who are part of the International Structure and every Vincentian of the world, in their mission of faith and commitment to service towards the poorest.

The President General, Renato Lima de Oliveira, declared: “From the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank those Vincentians who have taken part in the International Structure during these first four years of term, to whom I express my great gratitude for the services provided. Therefore, I ask all those who remain to continue their ministry with the same love and loyalty. To those who are joining the International Structure, I want you to be mindful of the privilege and joy of serving the SSVP’s CGI.”

There are new developments for this new period, some of which are herein listed: The new post of ‘3rd Vice President General Deputy’ has been established, and will be taken over by fellow member Juan Manuel Buergo Gómez (Spain); fellow member Antonio Gianfico (Italy) becomes the new International Vice President for Institutional Relationship; fellow member Alfons ten Velde (Netherlands) becomes the new International Vice President for Governance and Strategic Affairs; fellow member Ralph Middlecamp (USA) has taken over the new International Vice Presidency for Solidarity and Social Projects; and fellow member Helen O’Shea (England & Wales) will be in charge of the Governance Department. New territorial delegates, area coordinators, commissions and departments were also appointed.

Pursuant to the Rule, the Structure concludes its service upon completion of President General’s term of office, on September 8th, 2022. All the same, as this is the last stage of the term and in order to prevent discontinuity of services, the Rule wisely provides that members of the Structure may keep on ministering for a further six-month period (March 8th, 2023), or until the new President General can make whatever adjustments he deems necessary (Article 3.28 of International Statutes).

Furthermore, upon approval by the International Board, the President General also stated the new non-permanent countries that will be part of the International Executive Committee (IEC) during this two-year period, as provided for in the Confederation’s Statutes, which now features two new categories: countries with up to 500 Conferences; and countries with between 501 and 999 Conferences. Thus, transparency and international governance are enhanced. “I am very pleased with the improvements made within the International Structure. I do believe that we will do more and we will do better, with the same economic resources, without any extra cost”, guaranteed our President General.

Click here for further information: 2021-2022 – New Structure ENG