From November 14 to 17, 2024, the Vincentian Family gathered in Rome for the 2nd International Convocation, under the theme “Keeping the Fire Burning.” This event served as a space for encounter, formation, and strengthening the commitment to the poorest, where members from different branches shared experiences, challenges, and best practices to continue carrying forward the Vincentian charism worldwide.

The final document of the gathering, titled “Keeping the Fire Burning to Be Pilgrims of Hope,” summarizes the fruits of these days and invites us to renew our commitment to the mission, living charity with passion and boldness. It reminds us that the fire of Vincentian love must not be extinguished but continually rekindled through prayer, service, and community work.

From Panama, Inés Barés shares her testimony about this enriching experience. She highlights the beauty of meeting Vincentians from around the world, seeing how the charism is lived in diverse realities, and recognizing the common challenges we face. In addition to the formative and testimonial sessions, she emphasizes the importance of strengthening bonds of fraternity—because the best way to keep the fire alive is by sharing it.

Inés’ testimony reminds us that the Vincentian Family is not just a collection of branches and persons but a living community, united by the same love and mission: to serve Christ in the poor. May this fire continue to burn in our hearts!

Translation:

Hello dear Vincentian Family

I am Inés Barés from Panama and I wanted to share with you that the recent Vincentian Family meeting under the motto “keeping the fire burning” was excellent.

We met people from all over the world living the charism in such different ways, in such different places and in some cases, very similar to ours.

We also met friends that we have made along the way, that neither time nor distance can separate what this charism has already united.

We had many sessions where we received the testimonies of many people and also many training sessions where we could deepen in those areas where we are having most of our challenges or also be the ones who share good practices with others.

Of course we took advantage of every minute to explore the city and make those relationships even stronger. It is the best way to keep the fire burning, sharing with the family, making it more united and sharing a love for the forgotten.

Thank you, Vincentian Family!

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