As the Vincentian Family of Africa and Madagascar gathers in Nairobi for its First Continental Congress, participants from different countries and branches are sharing not only their hopes, but also the living experience of the Vincentian charism. Their words speak of service, youth, humility, unity, and closeness to those who are poor and excluded. These five testimonies offer a glimpse of a Family that is growing together, listening deeply, and seeking to be a living witness to Christ’s love.

Joseph Odhiambo – SSVP Kenya:

“I pray that the Vincentian Family remains close to the realities of the poor, if only to care and to listen. We must go to their level. Service for us is not an event, but a way of life. As different branches in one Family, we must support each other and be a community where no one is forgotten.”

Alexander Guente – VMY Mozambique:

“I am grateful for the formation that the Vincentian Family offers young people. As young people, we need the support and the experience of the Family. We may not have a lot of means to help others, but we have a richness in our hearts and a will to share.”

Chebou N.D. Carelle – VMY Cameroon:

“Seeing through my tears, I once saw a disabled person filled with joy, which made me question myself. Becoming part of VMY has imparted humility and zeal to me. I try to live my life with shared joy. May the voice of youth be heard.”

Jean Baptiste Jacko Ramoriamizaraomy– VMY Madagascar:

“I dream of a united, dynamic Vincentian Family, close to the poor whom society has excluded, a Family in which we are the living testimony of Christ’s love. We will then live lives of unexpected joy.”

Marie Louise Uwitonze – VMY Rwanda:

“I am grateful for the virtues that the Vincentian Family has taught me, especially the virtues of humility and modesty.”