Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Living and Serving in Hope
This short essay is inspired by the theme for the 2024 Annual National Formation (ANF) of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Canada, “Serving in Hope.”
Engaged Minds, Busy Hands at “Backpack League” Summer Camp
Creating tie-dye shirts. Math problems incorporating exercise. Interactive storytelling. Robotics. Arts and dance.
Contemplation: From Darkness Into Light
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org It is from St. John of the Cross that we get the phrase “dark night of...
Contemplation: Who Do They Say That We Are?
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org “Who do the people say that I am?” Christ asked of his disciple, before asking, “And who do you say that I am?” He was not surprised to receive two different answers, despite the fact that He never wavered in telling all...
Contemplation: A Cycle of Love
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org We serve, our Rule reminds us, for love alone. [Rule, Part I, 2.2] This does not mean we do it in exchange for love, but rather that our works are motivated by love, and freely given as acts of love. Our own hearts, aflame...
Contemplation: Joy In Gratitude
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org In the times that our work seems difficult, and the problems of the neighbor or our Conference seems overwhelming, there is one thing that should fill our hearts and minds, bringing us to a state of peace and good cheer in...
The Home Visit: An Encounter with our Neighbor
Hear what three members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul have to say about their experiences during a Home Visit with a neighbor, and how that has shaped their time with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
Contemplation: One Who Lives Differently
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org Serviens in spe, reads the Society’s motto, Serving in Hope. Hope can be a powerful feeling, a state of mind that keeps us going through great difficulties. It is a light at the end of the tunnel, the silver lining behind...
Feed the 40203: Food Pantry Celebrates 10 years
“Feed the 40203.” St. Vincent de Paul Louisville’s Food Pantry has lived out that mantra since July 2014. Over the last decade, the Food Pantry has given groceries to more than 51,000 households.
Contemplation: Providing What is Needed
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org One of the central tenets of Vincentian spirituality is trust in Divine Providence. We are called to trust that God will provide what is needed for things to work out for the best. In theory, this sounds quite simple,...
Contemplation: The Bashful Poor
This post originally appeared on ssvpusa.org Effective Conferences, our manual explains, are “reachable.” [Manual, 26] While most Conferences make every effort to ensure that their phone number, along with perhaps a website and email address, are well-publicized and...
Rhode Island Vincentians Turning Apartments Into Homes
The work being done by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Rhode Island this summer is exemplary of the value of long-term assistance to our neighbors in need.