On March 15, 2025, we celebrated a historical event for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) and for the entire Vincentian Family worldwide: the centenary of the opening of the process of canonization of Antoine Frederic Ozanam, the main founder of the SSVP. This date is an exceptional opportunity to deepen our devotion and reflect on the biography, legacy and holiness of Ozanam. More than a commemoration, the date is a compelling call to intensify our prayers and renew our commitment to charity and the praxis of the Gospel, following in the footsteps of this holy man who was so devoted to the poor and to social justice.

On March 15, 1925, the cause for his canonization was introduced at the Vatican. This was the fruit of the devotion of generations of Vincentians and countless testimonies of Ozanam’s holiness through unexplained healings. Since then, the road to the altars has been followed with fervor by all those inspired by Ozanam’s life and mission. The process has progressed over the decades, culminating in his beatification on August 22, 1997 by Pope John Paul II.

A decisive moment in this process was the recognition of the first miracle attributed to Ozanam’s intercession: the healing of the child Fernando Ottoni, on February 2, 1926, in Brazil. Science was unable to explain the sudden recovery from the illness (severe diphtheria), considered incurable by medicine, that had afflicted the 18-month-old child, and the Church confirmed that it was a divine sign. This miracle was essential for Ozanam to be promoted to the status of Blessed years later, strengthening his spiritual influence and inspiring even more Vincentians around the world.

Currently, the Holy See is analyzing new cases of possible miracles. Reports of unexplained healings attributed to Ozanam’s intercession have been carefully documented and submitted to the Vatican. If one of these miracles is recognized, his canonization could finally be affirmed, conferring on him the title of saint. This expectation fills our hearts with hope and encourages us to intensify our prayers for this noble cause.

To join in this cause, we are invited to intensify our prayer life and to actively participate in the Spiritual Campaign for the Canonization of Ozanam, especially by practicing the fast that is being proposed to us, at the initiative of the International General Council, on the 23rd of each month. In addition, we can ask daily for the intercession of Frederic Ozanam in our lives, trusting that God, by his grace, will grant us blessings and answers to our needs. Lent, a liturgical season suitable for reflection and spiritual deepening, is an excellent opportunity to increase our prayers and strengthen our communion with the holiness of Ozanam.

There is no doubt that we are getting closer and closer to the canonization of our beloved and principal founder. May this centenary be a time of grace for all of us and may we, with faith and perseverance, soon witness this historic moment for the Church, for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and for the Vincentian Family. May Blessed Ozanam, our intercessor, continue to inspire us on the path of charity, selfless service and love of neighbor.

Brother Renato Lima de Oliveira
16th President General of the SSVP between 2016 and 2023
and current President of the Central Council of the Divine Holy Spirit of Asa Norte, Brasilia, Brazil.