Responding to the contemporary challenges of the Church, the Vincentian Lay Missionaries (MISEVI) embody a “new way of being a disciple of Christ and a missionary,” as expressed by Elie Chavez, C.M. But what exactly is MISEVI, and what is its purpose in today’s world?

The Identity of MISEVI

As its name suggests, MISEVI is a community of lay people committed to the Vincentian charism, inspired by the teachings of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac. This movement was born in response to the call of the Second Vatican Council, which urged all the baptized—religious and lay alike—to take an active part in the mission of the Church and in the pursuit of holiness.

The movement is, above all, lay, Vincentian, disciple, and missionary. It is a way of living the faith that combines everyday life with service to those most in need, following the example of Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac, who, in their time, inspired millions to take up their role in the Church not merely as spectators, but as key participants.

The Origin and Development of MISEVI

The story of MISEVI begins in the mid-1980s, when young people from the Vincentian Marian Youth (JMV) in Spain felt a strong call to the Ad Gentes mission—that is, to evangelize in foreign lands—during the summer months. What began as a series of volunteer experiences evolved, during the 1990s, into a deeper desire to establish a permanent mission.

This missionary drive, initially supported by the Confregation of the Mission, the Daughters of Charity, and JMV, led to the creation of MISEVI, a new reality within the Vincentian Family. The first International Assembly, held in January 2001, marked a milestone in the history of the organization by formalizing its identity and structure.

MISEVI’s growth continued, and in November 2010 the organization received its Canonical Decree from the Holy See, becoming an International Public Association of Pontifical Right recognized by the Vatican.

MISEVI in Today’s World

Today, MISEVI is present in 13 countries across five continents, and its missionary work has diversified to adapt to both local and global realities. Although its original mission focused exclusively on Ad Gentes work, over time MISEVI has expanded its scope to include both local and international missions.

MISEVI members engage in a wide range of services, from evangelization and education to health and social support programs. These are some of the areas where MISEVI is active:

• Evangelization: Proclaiming the Gospel in communities in need.
• Education: Literacy and tutoring programs for children and adults.
• Refugees and the Homeless: Projects providing basic assistance and spiritual accompaniment.
• Health: Medical services in areas with limited access to healthcare.
• Social Intervention: Work with incarcerated women, women’s empowerment programs, and support for victims of violence.
• Youth: Training and guidance in youth ministry within local dioceses.
• Elderly: Care and support for older adults in vulnerable situations.

A Center of Missionary Activity

MISEVI aspires to become a global hub for missionary activity. The organization serves as a bridge between volunteers from the Vincentian Family and missionary communities around the world, facilitating the sending and receiving of lay missionaries.

MISEVI’s vocation, rooted in discipleship in Christ and the Vincentian charism, is to proclaim the Good News and to serve the poorest of the poor. This mission is not only relevant but also urgent in a world where injustice and poverty remain pressing challenges.

Timeline of MISEVI International

• 1984: The first JMV youth are sent on Ad Gentes missions during their vacation months.
• 1987: Some of these young people remain as lay missionaries, taking on renewable commitments and beginning to dream of a structure that would allow for a permanent lay missionary presence.
• 1992: The idea is formally proposed to create an association within the Vincentian Family to support and coordinate lay missionary work.
• October 18, 1997: During a missionary workshop in El Cisne, the young participants take on the responsibility of energizing the future association, and a Steering Committee is appointed to prepare the first General Assembly.
• April 7, 1999: The Statutes of MISEVI International are approved by the Holy See, establishing it as an International Public Association of the Faithful.
• January 6, 2001: The first General Assembly of MISEVI is held in Los Molinos, Madrid, clarifying the organization’s identity and defining its future lines of action.
• September 29, 2001: MISEVI is officially recognized as an International Public Association of Pontifical Right.
• November 25, 2010: The Vatican approves and confirms the revised Statutes of MISEVI, presented by the Superior General of the Congregation of the Mission.

A Future Full of Hope

What began as a small group of young people with a deep desire to serve has grown into an international organization with a significant impact on the lives of thousands around the world. Its mission continues to expand, and its commitment to the poorest remains its driving force.

As disciples of Christ and Vincentian missionaries, MISEVI members are called to be light in the midst of darkness, to work tirelessly for justice, and to bring hope where it is most needed. In an increasingly divided world, their work stands as a living testimony to the transforming power of love and selfless service.

Contact:

• Address: C/ Mar Bático 6c, 28033 Madrid, España
• Email: info@misevinter.org
• Website: https://misevinter.org/