Outstanding Vincentians
Brother Bertrand Ducournau, C.M.: The Silent Guardian of Saint Vincent de Paul’s Legacy
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: A Life of Service, Love, and Vincentian Commitment
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: a Life Full of Love, Faith and Commitment by the side of Frederic Ozanam
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, C.M.: the Pioneer-Priest of the Miraculous Medal
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, DC: A Case Study of Vincentian Leadership
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, Founding Patroness of the Congregation of the Mission
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.
The Life and Legacy of Bishop Albin Małysiak, CM: A Shepherd of Faith and Bravery during World War II
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.
Emmanuel Bailly: The Advisor and Friend of Christian Youth
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.
January 20, 1842: The Conversion of Alphonse Ratisbonne, Apostle of the Miraculous Medal
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.
The Legacy of Vincent Lebbe
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.