This Friday, April 23, is the anniversary of the founding of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in 1833.

The following video was shared by SVdP Madison (Wisconsin, USA).

“Frederic Ozanam had a passion for charity and justice which was driven by a deep faith in the presence of God who was actively engaged in the social progress of the world through the actions of Christians. This presentation by Ralph Middlecamp… examines the development of Ozanam’s thought on the social struggles of his time… as he sought to involve others in the practice of charity and the cause of justice.”

Source: Vimeo/SVdP Madison

The video describes 5 elements of bringing charity and justice to the public sphere:

1. Build Relationships and Consensus
   (engage in dialog on the big issues of the day)
2. Go to the Source
   (go and experience in order to understand)
3. Organize with Subsidiarity in Structure
   (at the lowest level possible, where the people are)
4. Have Courage to Advocate and Act
   (stand for faith and justice, risking reputation and friendships)
5. Accept Disappointments
   (see God’s providence even when things don’t go as you planned)