Here is another in our series of “Praying Our Heritage.” The series illustrates quotes from key figures in the Vincentian Heritage.

Let the image and the quote sink in, and take root. These images might surprise you into prayer at various points in your day.

Walking through each day with St. Vincent

St. Vincent told the Daughters of Charity: “When you’ve finished dressing and have made your bed, you’ll begin your mental prayer. This is the heart of devotion, Sisters, and you really have to want to accustom yourselves to making it well. No, don’t be afraid that poor village girls— ignorant as you think you are— shouldn’t aspire to this holy exercise. God is so good, and has already been so good in your regard as to call you to practice charity, so why do you think He’ll deny you the grace you need to pray well? Don’t let such a thought enter your mind. I was deeply edified today in talking with a good young woman from the country, who is now one of the greatest souls I know!”

St. Vincent was speaking to the Daughters of Charity but no matter who we are, he tells us that we can learn to pray well.
The early Daughters of Charity were humble girls who did the hands-on, daily service of the poorest people— something that was not easy for the ladies of nobility or of the bourgeoisie. It was difficult to overcome the barriers of social class at the time.
As a follower of St. Vincent today— whatever your role— keep serving in your own way, and ask for the grace to pray well!

For the more visually oriented among us, you don’t have to wait for the weekly image on Tuesday. You can browse for yourself. You can even search for images related to key words. Visit and search VinFormation’s database of prayer images.

We hope you will enjoy these time-release prayer capsules!

We would also welcome you sharing with all of us images that inspired you to prayer.