From November 14 to 17, 2024, Rome witnessed a transcendental moment for the Vincentian Family: the Second International Convocation, where members from around the world came together to renew their commitment to the mission of St. Vincent de Paul. Under the theme “Keeping the Fire Burning to Be Pilgrims of Hope”, the event was a space for communion, reflection, and action to strengthen our response to the current challenges of poverty.

The final document of this gathering summarizes the key inspirations and commitments that emerged during these grace-filled days. It invites us to live our vocation with passion, to be visible signs of hope, and to develop creative initiatives that respond to the concrete needs of the poor. It is a call to unity and action, reminding us that our strength lies in service and fraternal sharing.

In this spirit, Wendy Fuentes, from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Honduras, shares her personal experience of the gathering. For her, it was a time of profound spiritual enrichment, characterized by sharing with brothers and sisters from different countries, cultures, and languages, all united by the same love for service. The Eucharistic celebrations, moments of reflection, and exchange of experiences rekindled in her heart the commitment to serve with joy and creativity.

May this testimony and the final document help us keep the flame of love for service alive, responding generously to Christ’s call. Let us share it and continue walking together as pilgrims of hope!

Translation:

Hello, my name is Wendy Fuentes from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Honduras.

Regarding my personal experience in the last international gathering of the Vincentian Family in Rome, I can say that, on the spiritual level, it was a very enriching experience. The opportunity to share with brothers and sisters from different continents, with different languages, cultures and customs, united by the same charism is something very enriching that enlivens within us the spirit of service.

Sharing with these brothers and sisters the service they provide from each of the branches, looking for creative ways to adapt to the place where they are, is something from which we can learn much.

Sharing together in the Eucharist and in moments of reflection is something that fills the spirit and fans the flame of love for service that we need more and more each day.

I hope that you will reflect on this document summarizing the meeting and that you too will be able to perceive that flame and keep alive that love of service which is what our Lord Jesus Christ calls us to.

Thank you very much and I hope you can share the document.

A big hug

Read or download the final Document of the Second Convocation of the Vincentian Family: “Keeping the Fire Burning to Be Pilgrims of Hope.”

“Keeping the Fire Burning to Be Pilgrims of Hope”: Document of the Second Convocation of the Vincentian Family