All living things show visible signs of activity. They breathe. They take in nourishment. They grow. They animate others with their beauty. They experience injury and absorb the pain of others, but their deep roots in the elements of God’s creation allow them to survive.

FAVILA (The Latin American Vincentian Family Council — a coordinated group representing various branches of the Vincentian Family in Latin America and the Caribbean) is no doubt ALIVE WITH THE VINCENTIAN SPIRIT! FAVILA ENCUENTRO 2026 gives all of us reason to praise and thank God for this living ecosystem. During our days of encounter, we experienced amazing Signs of Life:

• Vibrant, joyful celebrations of prayer, bringing together those who hear the cries of the poor and raise their hearts and voices not only for themselves, but “FOR THE SAKE OF THE POOR,” as echoed in one of our many songs.
• An energized community, rich in diversity, engaged in discernment in the spirit of synodality.
• Men and women who serve, wanting to be stretched by the call to systemic change.
• Brothers and sisters engaged in storytelling that unites us in a common sense of belonging.
• Free, accepting, honest communication that does not boast of one individual, but looks to the strength of all.
• A willingness to go deeper into consideration of the fabric of the Vincentian Family: relationships, spirituality, structure, and prophetic missionary action.
• Time devoted to continual understanding of the human condition through the pedagogy of encounter.
• Eyes, minds, and hearts opened wide to the planet as it cries for our care and respect for life.
• Hearts intertwined through the artistry of music, dance, culture, and moments of silence that express kindness and tenderness.

These signs of life are more than words. In them is HOPE. In them is the GOSPEL. In them is the REIGN OF GOD HERE ON EARTH. In them is the CHARISM of our VINCENTIAN FAMILY.

The pragmatic side in each of us might say, “Yes, beautiful words, but did anything really happen that will lead to change, progress, and clear direction?”

The call to action was interwoven throughout this time of encounter and dialogue. What happened can be seen in the following realities:

• Individuals made connections, exchanging ideas, best practices, and a willingness to help.
• The Lines of Action from the Vincentian Family 2024 Convocation in Rome, as well as present global realities, set the background for each region to discern its own priorities and to further discuss these priorities with their national councils, communities, and confraternities.
• A synergy across borders, branches, and generations led to possibilities for collaboration as needs were mutually expressed and heard.
• A recommitment to strengthening structures and relationships, especially with the Vincentian Family Office and the FAMVIN Homeless Alliance, both of which were active partners in this encounter.

These SIGNS OF LIFE are for TODAY, if only we grasp God among us:

• God among us in the shared talents and commitment of brilliant, energized, spiritual men and women with passion for the poor and love for the Vincentian Charism.
• God among us in the hearts and minds of these leaders in the Vincentian Family who continually ask, “What more can we do?”
• God among us in a constant, living reinterpretation and rejuvenation of the treasure given to us by Vincent, Louise, Frédéric, and so many other Vincentian men and women who dreamed of this global network and lived their lives for this dream.

Some described these days as a “family reunion.” Others described them as a renewal of our Vincentian call to service and community. Perhaps the words of our FAVILA 2026 Hymn give the best proclamation of these days and of our shared charism living among us.

FAVILA 2026 Gathering Anthem
Lyrics and music by Wilfredo Vargas Rojas
Produced and performed by Lued Oliva

We must be willing to serve, just as Jesus, who gave himself through his life.
Though he was God, he became poor out of love; let us follow Jesus with love and charity.
Come and unite together as brothers and sisters, where the poor lead us to Jesus.
Reach out your hand to your brother and sister; together, let us make a covenant of love.
We grow together in a living charism, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus.
Where the poor are our favorites, Vincentians continue serving in the mission.
We must be willing to continue, as Vincent taught us.
Always be open to giving our very lives without hesitation.

Sr. Ellen Marie Hagar, DC
Executive Director
Vincentian Family Office