The Vincentian Family is gearing up for an extraordinary event that will take place in Rome from November 14-17, 2024. This gathering, known as the Second Vincentian Convocation, is a unique opportunity to bring together members from around the world in a space for reflection, dialogue, and renewal of our commitment to the values handed down to us by St. Vincent de Paul. Under the theme “Keeping the Fire Burning: Vincentian Synodality in Action”, the convocation promises to be a milestone in the recent history of our family, and you won’t want to miss the chance to be part of it. If you haven’t sent in your registration yet, now is the time to do so. Don’t leave it until the last minute!

A Gathering to Strengthen Vincentian Synodality

The central theme of this convocation, “Keeping the Fire Burning,” highlights the importance of synodality within our community. In an ecclesial context where Pope Francis has emphasized the need for a more synodal Church, the Vincentian Family joins this call, seeking concrete ways to implement this approach in our works and missions.

Synodality is not just a buzzword; it is a way of being and acting that invites us to walk together, to listen to everyone, and to discern the path that God is calling us to follow, in a communal way. For us, Vincentians, this means a renewed commitment to the poor and marginalized, who must be our primary interlocutors on this synodal journey.

The convocation in Rome will be a platform to discuss how we, as the Vincentian Family, can become more synodal in our structures, decisions, and actions. Topics such as the participation of laypeople in the Vincentian mission, intergenerational collaboration, and the integration of the various branches of our family into a common mission will be explored.

Who Is Invited?

This event is open to all members of the Vincentian Family, regardless of their role or function within the community. This includes committed laypeople, religious, priests, missionaries, volunteers, and collaborators from the various branches of the Vincentian Family, such as the Congregation of the Mission, the Daughters of Charity, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the International Association of Charities, Vincentian Marian Youth, and other Vincentian associations around the world.

Leaders from different countries, as well as those directly involved in serving the poor, are expected to participate. Additionally, the convocation is an open invitation to young Vincentians who wish to learn more about how to contribute to the Vincentian charism in their local communities.

This broad spectrum of participants ensures a rich diversity of perspectives and experiences, which will make the exchange of ideas and discussions particularly fruitful. It doesn’t matter if you are a longtime member or have only recently joined our community; this event is designed for everyone, without distinction.

A Packed Agenda with Key Moments

The organizers have prepared a rich agenda of activities designed to inspire and equip participants to face the challenges of our time with the spirit of St. Vincent de Paul. Among the highlights is the address by Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J., a man deeply committed to social causes and with vast experience in defending the rights of migrants and refugees. His presence will undoubtedly be a highlight of the gathering.

Cardinal Czerny will share his vision on how synodality can and should be applied in contexts of exclusion and vulnerability, and how the Vincentian Family can play a crucial role in building a more inclusive and participatory Church. His address will be a call to action for all present, urging us not to settle for passive witness but to be active agents of change in our communities.

In addition to lectures and talks, the convocation will include workshops, roundtables, and moments of communal prayer. These spaces are designed to foster the exchange of ideas and experiences among participants, as well as to offer practical tools that can be applied in their respective contexts. The diversity of activities ensures that every member of the Vincentian Family will find a space for personal and communal growth.

A Call to Action for All Vincentians

Pope Francis has constantly reminded us that the Church is not a mere institution, but a living community that must be constantly on the move. The Vincentian Family, faithful to its charism of service to the poor, is called to be a driving force behind this movement. The convocation in Rome is an opportunity for all members of our family to join this dynamic, renewing their commitment to the Vincentian mission and exploring new ways to carry it out in today’s world.

While the convocation will indeed be marked by moments of deep reflection and prayer, it will also be a space for action. The workshops and roundtables are designed to address practical issues, such as the implementation of community development projects, the defense of human rights, and the promotion of social justice. Participants will be challenged to think of innovative ways to respond to the needs of the poor in their respective contexts, using synodality as a framework for joint action.

This is, without a doubt, a unique opportunity for everyone who is part of the Vincentian Family. The richness of our family lies precisely in its diversity, and the convocation in Rome is an occasion to celebrate that diversity while we unite in a common mission.

Why It’s Crucial to Register as Soon as Possible

Given the magnitude of this event, it is essential that all those interested secure their participation as soon as possible. Early registration not only guarantees your place at the convocation but also allows the organizers to plan more effectively, ensuring that all logistical details are covered and that each participant can make the most of the experience.

Moreover, early registration is also a sign of commitment to the Vincentian Family and the mission we share. By confirming your participation, you are sending a clear message that you value these kinds of gatherings and are willing to invest your time and energy in strengthening the bonds that unite us as a community.

If you haven’t sent in your registration yet, we encourage you to do so today. Don’t let excuses or fear of the unknown keep you from being part of this transformative experience. The Vincentian Family awaits you in Rome, ready to walk with you on this journey of synodality and shared mission.

See you in Rome from November 14-17!

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