Formation
A Vincentian View: Roses in December
The eyes of many members of Sunday communities open a little wider on the Third Sunday of Advent as they see the celebrant of the assembly arrive in rose-colored vestments.
How do you handle conflict?
A simple fact of life. We don’t always agree… especially on things that are important to us.
Contemplation: Stop Talking, Start Doing
Pope Francis, in Fratelli Tutti, and Emmanuel Bailly warn against excessive discussion and bureaucracy, emphasizing that true charity lies in action, humility, and avoiding the temptation of seeking praise or publicity for good works. Frédéric Ozanam likewise highlights that holiness and growth are achieved through acts of charity, not elaborate plans or self-congratulatory discussions.
Advent from a Vincentian Perspective, Part 5: Advent: A Time for Conversion and Solidarity with the Poor
For Vincentians, this time is particularly significant, as it invites personal conversion and a renewed commitment to justice and solidarity with the poor.
Advent Presentation – A Time of Hope and Renewal
Advent Reflection for the Vincentian Family by Fr. G. Gregory Gay, C.M., former Superior General.
Contemplation: A Fine Soul
Blessed Frédéric and his wife Amélie Soulacroix exemplified a deep, shared holiness that enriched their lives and inspired their service to the poor through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Their marriage, built on faith, mutual encouragement, and love, not only strengthened Frédéric in his vocation but also fostered Amélie’s Vincentian spirit, as they worked together to bring comfort and relief to those in need.
How Long Until Christmas?
I suspect many of our parents remember how often we asked the question. “How how long until Christmas”? I remember I could hardly wait for the gifts!
Advent from a Vincentian Perspective, Part 4: Mary: Model of Service and Surrender in Advent
At the heart of this season, we find the figure of Mary, whose journey of faith and surrender to God’s plan serves as a powerful model for our own spiritual lives.
Mutual Correctives (Psalm 85)
A helpful distinction I once heard — that between contradictions and correlations.
Who are your Friends?
“Tell me your friends, and I will tell you who you are.” These words are but echoes of words spoken over 400 years before Christ.
What Should We Do to Attain Joy and Peace?
Jesus makes known to us his joy and his peace. Hence, it is enough for us to go to him to get an answer to the question, “What should we do?” We can thus be full of his joy and his peace. It seems that the one who calls folks to repent and be baptized touches their...
December 10: Feast Day of Bl. Marcantonio Durando, C.M.
On December 10 we celebrate the feast day of Blessed Marcantonio Durando, C.M., who became known as the “St. Vincent of Italy”.