Today, September 12, 2026, we, the members of the Vincentian Family, pray for the healing of historical wounds within Vincentian institutions.

Every community and institution carries both graces and failures within its history. Vincentian institutions have offered education, healthcare, pastoral care, and service to countless people, yet there may also be memories of exclusion, silence, abuse, paternalism, or decisions that caused lasting harm.

Healing begins when the truth is neither denied nor hidden. It requires listening to those who were wounded, accepting responsibility, seeking forgiveness, and making concrete changes so that past failures are not repeated.

Fidelity to the Vincentian charism does not mean idealizing our history. It means returning continually to the Gospel and allowing the cries of the poor to call us to conversion.

We pray today for all who carry wounds connected with Vincentian institutions. May their experiences be heard with respect. May leaders act with humility and transparency, and may every branch of the Vincentian Family grow in accountability, justice, and compassion.

Word of God

“You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
(John 8:32)

Prayer

God of truth and mercy, bring healing wherever harm has been done in our institutions. Give us courage to acknowledge failure, humility to listen, and perseverance to build communities worthy of the Gospel and the trust of those we serve. Amen.