.famvin TEAM
Author
The Daughters of Charity at Carville, 1896-1981
This text recounts the dedication of the Daughters of Charity, who provided care to patients with Hansen’s disease at the Carville leprosarium in Louisiana. It details their struggles, resilience, and contributions to improving living conditions, medical treatments, and societal acceptance for patients, ultimately transforming Carville into a symbol of compassion and progress for Hansen’s disease care in the United States.
The Sisters of Gijzegem: A History of Devotion and Service
Founded in 1818 by Baroness Elisabeth de Robiano, the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Vincent de Paul, “Servants of the Poor” of Gijzegem, embodies over two centuries of dedication to spirituality, education, and healthcare, with a special focus on the poorest of the poor.
Contemplation: Is It Okay?
A homeless man sleeping outside a parish hall raises both a practical and moral question about what should be done. While his presence is not forbidden, the deeper issue is the injustice of homelessness, calling for both compassion and action guided by faith and social responsibility.
Lenten Reflection: Ecological Spirituality
Compassion is faith in action. The ecological crisis that we are facing is a direct result of humanity’s collective lack of compassion for the Earth. The disconnect between people and the planet can be mended by recognizing that we are all part of Creation, and therefore, are created in the image of the divine.
“The Fastest Nun in the West:” Sister Blandina Segale, Servant of God, Patron of Immigrant Children, Closer to Canonization
Sister Blandina Segale is advancing in the process of canonization after Vatican historians approved the Positio, a key document proving her heroic virtue. She was instrumental in founding schools and hospitals in the Southwest, and aided immigrants, with her legacy continuing through CommonSpirit St. Joseph’s Children and other charitable institutions.
Ozanam: 100 Years on the Road to Sainthood
On March 15, 2025, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul celebrated the 100th anniversary of the opening of the canonization process of Antoine Frédéric Ozanam, highlighting his legacy of charity and social justice. The hope for his canonization remains alive, driven by new reports of miracles and the dedication of Vincentians to intensify their prayers and actions in his memory.
Vincentian Dictionary: Subsidiarity
The principle of subsidiarity fosters collaboration between individuals and social structures. Originating in the social doctrine of the Church, it asserts that larger entities should not replace the functions of smaller ones. In the Vincentian perspective, it merges with the spirituality of St. Vincent, emphasizing active charity and the role of the disadvantaged in their own development.
SCN Volunteers Build New Home for Belize Woman Who Lost Everything
After losing her home to a devastating fire, Emelina Molina found strength in faith and family, with her brother encouraging her to start anew. A team of volunteers from the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, in collaboration with Hand in Hand Ministries, built her a new home, turning their labor into a testament of faith, resilience, and community support.
Restoring Dignity and Hope Through Housing in Brazil
The 13 Houses Project for the Jubilee in Brazil, led by the Daughters of Charity and Vincentian collaborators, has provided housing to vulnerable families, restoring their dignity and stability. Despite financial and logistical challenges, the commitment of the community and the project’s positive social impact have driven its expansion, offering hope and transformation to those facing homelessness.
Embracing Eternity in the Present: Elizabeth’s Incarnational Spirituality
Elizabeth Seton’s spirituality centered on embracing every moment with faith, trust, and a deep love that transformed her and those around her. Her life’s trials and joys revealed God’s presence and eternal grace, inspiring others to find meaning and strength in their own experiences.