Vincentian Marian Youth USA held the 2023 Formation Gathering for Leaders at Seton Provincialate in Northern California.  Seven sites attended from across the country with a total of 22 leaders and religious advisors.

We delved into the history of VMY – from St Catherine Labouré to our current reality.  We reviewed the four pillars and discussed ways to implement them in our youth gatherings.   Everyone was introduced to our new virtual Vincentian Youth Leadership Program which is now accepting youth applicants.  We also shared various ways to carry out the annual promises and commitments as VMY members. Finally, we closed our formation with an in-depth understanding of Marian Consecration.

During the three days, we shared ideas, networked and collaborated on activities within the sites, as well as discussed best practices and resources that have been useful.  The whole weekend included games and various types of prayers that were inspirational for their own use.

Small group breakout sessions amongst the leaders provided the opportunity to network amongst them.  Tables were mixed so experienced leaders could share insights and provide helpful recommendations to new site leaders.  A few teams took this time to exchange ideas and plan out further ways to improve integration.

Memorable moments included conversations around meals on personal reflections and the witness to their member’s spiritual fruits.  It was inspiring to see VMY medal relics that demonstrated our history and progress from Children of Mary to our current times.

Fellowship amongst leaders was satisfied through games, prizes, trivia and Vincentian Saint fun facts which were sprinkled all over the gathering.  Many expressed an eagerness and thirst to continue in the collaboration for our VMY Youth.  Leaders returned to their sites with tools and a deep sense of hope.

For the upcoming holidays, several sites are already organizing service projects for their members to collaborate.  Coordination has been provided for members to elaborate blessing bags for elderly and single moms, as well as creating snack bags for several ministries caring for the homeless.

VMY USA

Source and more pictures: https://jmvinter.org/