The event, organized by the Central Council of Quixadá, Brazil, uses sports as a means of fostering community, collecting food, and bringing the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) closer to the wider public.
The SSVP in Quixadá, in the Brazilian state of Ceará, is preparing for the second St. Vincent de Paul Race, scheduled for September 20, 2026, at 6:00 a.m. Organized by the Central Council (CC) of Quixadá, the initiative transforms sports into an instrument of evangelization and solidarity, bringing Vincentians and the local community together around a shared cause: service to others.
The idea arose from a desire to take the presence of the SSVP beyond its traditional areas of activity. “We realized that a race could bring together Vincentians, families, athletes, and the entire community for a time of fellowship, showing that charity can also be lived through initiatives that unite people around a good cause,” explains Thiago Paulino, vice president of the Quixadá Central Council.
The first edition, held in 2025, was created as part of the celebrations marking the 140th anniversary of the SSVP in Quixadá. It was so successful that the race became part of the official program for the Sunday preceding the annual observance of the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul, combining sports and solidarity in preparation for this important celebration of Vincentian life.
More Than a Race
The event goes far beyond athletic competition. The five-kilometer race attracts both professional and amateur athletes, but its primary purpose is something else: to strengthen unity among Vincentians and make the mission of the SSVP better known to the public. “We want to show that our mission extends far beyond visiting the families we assist. It also involves mobilizing society in support of solidarity and inspiring new people to serve others,” Thiago emphasizes.
The race also promotes the collection of food for families supported by the SSVP in Quixadá. From community outreach to the organization of the event itself, teamwork strengthens fraternity among Vincentians from different Conferences, Councils, and cities, reinforcing their sense of belonging to one shared mission.
Fruits of the First Edition
The results of the inaugural race exceeded the organizers’ expectations. Vincentians from other cities and people who had not previously known about the SSVP took part in the event, forming new friendships and inspiring many to learn more about the work being carried out with families experiencing vulnerability.
For Beatriz Cristino, a Vincentian from Quixadá, the experience confirmed the potential of sports as a gateway to the Vincentian mission. “Many people began following our activities and gained a better understanding of the Vincentian mission,” she says. “Those who participate learn about our history, our projects, and, above all, the quiet work carried out every day alongside families experiencing vulnerability.”
An Invitation to Vincentian Innovation
The experience in Quixadá can serve as an inspiration for other Vincentian units. Thiago Paulino offers a direct message: “Do not be afraid to innovate. When an initiative is organized with careful planning, unity, and a spirit of service, it bears great fruit. The St. Vincent de Paul Race has shown that sports can be used to evangelize, strengthen the organization, encourage healthy habits, and bring society closer to the Vincentian mission.”
For every participant who crosses the finish line on September 20, the hope extends far beyond receiving a medal. “We hope that each participant will leave with the certainty that they were part of something much greater than an athletic competition. If everyone feels even a little more inspired to do good, we will have achieved our greatest goal,” Beatriz concludes.
Event Details
Second St. Vincent de Paul Race
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
Starting time: 6:00 a.m.
Location: Quixadá, Ceará, Brazil
Category: Five-kilometer competitive race
Registration fee: R$89.90 for the general public | R$44.95 for athletes age 60 and older
Register at: https://evento.agendacatolica.com/2-corrida-de-sao-vicente-de-paulo
Written by Ricaella Inocente
Source: https://www.ssvpbrasil.org.br/
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