Brother Bertrand Ducournau, a devoted follower and secretary of Saint Vincent de Paul, was instrumental in preserving the saint’s legacy. His meticulous documentation of Vincent’s teachings and letters, often against opposition, ensured that future generations could access these valuable records, making him a key figure in the history of the Congregation of the Mission.
Sister Genoveva Masip Torner (1915-2015) was a Spanish Daughter of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, who dedicated her life to serving the poorest and most marginalized.
Amélie Soulacroix was a fundamental support of Frederic Ozanam, his constant companion in his academic and social responsibilities, as well as in his mission and his vision of social justice. Thanks to her and her tireless work to preserve the memory of her husband, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Vincentian Family can know Blessed Frederic better.
Father Jean Marie Aladel, CM was the spiritual director of the seminary of the Daughters of Charity on Rue du Bac in Paris in 1830. It was he who heard the message transmitted to him by the young Sister Catherine Labouré about the Marian visions she had received with the assignment to mint and disseminate a medal.
Sister Genevieve O’Farrell was a dedicated principal at St. Louise’s in Belfast, transforming the lives of disadvantaged students during “The Troubles.” Her commitment to education and peace made her a respected figure in Northern Ireland.
Françoise Marguérite De Silly was a good, religious and virtuous woman who had high ideals for herself, her family and her household, as well as the desire to bring justice to the management of her estates. This woman of “Vertu et Valeur” was the Founding Patroness of the Congregation of the Mission.
Bishop Albin Małysiak, CM, devoted his life to faith, education, and service, exemplifying courage by rescuing Jewish refugees during World War II. Recognized for his heroic efforts, he received honors from Poland and Yad Vashem, while also serving in prominent roles within the Vincentian community and the Archdiocese of Kraków.
The founders of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul included “six young college students and an older gentleman,” Emmanuel Bailly. Though little known today, even within the Society, Bailly made significant contributions to its founding and to restoring Catholicism in post-revolutionary France.
Alphonse Ratisbonne (1814–1884) was a Frenchman of Jewish background who, after a profound conversion experience on January 20, 1842, became a Jesuit priest and co-founded the Congregation of Our Lady of Sion, dedicated to fostering understanding between Jews and Christians. His life and work significantly impacted Jewish-Christian relations, and his conversion remains a notable testament to faith and spiritual transformation.
Today Vincent Lebbe (1877-1940) is far from being a household name – even in Roman Catholic circles – and yet he is one of the foremost figures of modem Catholicism. Of all the things that could be said about Vincent Lebbe, his spirituality, his total identification with the Chinese people, his stand for justice, and his creativity in fostering new forms of apostolate constitute the most significant facets of his legacy.
