The Second Convocation of the Vincentian Family, to be held November 14-17, 2024 in Rome, is an important event that will bring together members of this vast family from more than 160 branches worldwide. The central theme of the convocation is “Keeping the Fire Burning: Vincentian Synodality in Action,” an approach that invites all participants to reflect and work in unity to keep the Vincentian mission alive in the contemporary world.
The 2024 Vincentian Convocation aims primarily to strengthen the spirit of synodality, that is, walking together as a family. This gathering seeks to continue the work started during the first convocation in 2020, focusing on joint action and the fraternal connection between the various groups that make up the Vincentian Family. Additionally, in line with the World Day of the Poor, which will take place on November 17, the convocation will also focus on current challenges in serving the poor, as is traditional in Vincentian spirituality.
Program Overview
Thursday, November 14: Inauguration
The convocation will begin on Thursday, November 14, at 3:00 PM at the Ghione Theater in Rome, with an opening session led by Fr. Joseph Agostino, C.M. There will be a Vincentian prayer experience to open the event, followed by the screening of the video “Who is the Vincentian Family?”. The facilitators, Fr. Dennis Holtschneider, C.M., and Denise el-Khoury, will then be introduced and will guide the synodal dialogues throughout the event.
One of the key moments of the day will be the presentation by Fr. Tomaž Mavrič, C.M., Superior General of the Congregation of the Mission, who will offer a reflection titled “The Fuel that Keeps the Fire Burning”.
Friday, November 15: Reflection on Poverty
Friday morning will begin at 9:00 AM with a celebration of the Eucharist at the Ghione Theater, followed by a talk by Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J., who will address the topic “The Cry of the Poor”, reminding us of the Vincentian Family’s primary mission: service to the most vulnerable. After a short break, the synodal dialogue will resume, providing a space for joint reflection among participants.
Following a free lunch, the afternoon sessions will be held at the Casa Tra Noi Hotel, where smaller groups will work on topics of interest for the Vincentian Family.
Saturday, November 16: Vincentian Charism and Jubilee
On Saturday, back at the Ghione Theater, the day will begin with the Eucharist at 8:45 AM. Then, at 10:00 AM, the presentation “Charity Alive: The Many Faces of the Vincentian Charism in the World” will explore the various ways the branches of the Vincentian Family live and transmit the charism of St. Vincent de Paul.
A highlight will be the presentation of the Jubilee Year and the 13 Houses Campaign, a project aimed at providing housing solutions for the most vulnerable worldwide. The morning session will conclude with another synodal dialogue, followed by a free lunch.
In the afternoon, activities will continue at the Casa Tra Noi Hotel, culminating in a special event: an acoustic concert by Gen Verde titled “ARISE”.
Sunday, November 17: Mass with Pope Francis
The event will conclude on Sunday, November 17, with an unforgettable experience: participation in the Mass for the World Day of the Poor at St. Peter’s Basilica, presided over by Pope Francis. All participants of the convocation are expected to attend this important ceremony, which reinforces the spiritual and social dimensions of the Vincentian Family.
Reflection on Synodality and Joint Action
One of the key points of the convocation is the strengthening of the concept of synodality, which means walking together in the mission, listening to all members, and making decisions collectively. This approach highlights the need for each branch of the Vincentian Family to work in a coordinated manner, respecting the diversity of its members while united in the common goal of serving the less fortunate.
Vincentian synodality is not just a theoretical concept; it is action in progress. During the convocation, this principle will be put into practice through dialogues and working sessions where participants will share experiences, challenges, and proposals to enhance collaboration between the various branches of the Family.
For those who have not yet registered, we urge you not to leave this process until the last minute. Registration can be done through this link, where more information on the event and logistical details can also be found.
The Second Vincentian Family Convocation promises to be an event filled with spirituality, reflection, and action. It is a unique opportunity to strengthen Vincentian identity, live synodality, and renew the commitment to the poor. All attendees are called not only to participate but to return to their communities with a renewed missionary zeal, inspired by the charism of St. Vincent de Paul and the spirit of collaboration.
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Being UN familiar with Rome
Please provide a map of the areas where the events will happen so I can orient myself to the area
Thanks