Society of St. Vincent de Paul

Blessed Frédéric emphasized humility, simplicity, and religious motivation as essential to the Society’s mission, warning against pride, bureaucracy, and a focus on efficiency over spirit. He urged that all credit be given to God, encouraging service modeled on Christ and respect for other charitable efforts without comparison or competition.

Jesus’ repeated question to Peter—“Do you love me?”—is meant to awaken in us the truth that love for God is shown through action, especially toward the poor in whom Christ is truly present. Love of God and neighbor are inseparable, and we must answer Christ’s call not just with words, but with deeds.

True humility recognizes that all good comes from God, not from ourselves, and therefore we neither boast in success nor despair in failure, trusting instead in God’s will and timing. Our role is not to claim credit or control outcomes, but to serve with love, patience, and total confidence in Divine Providence.

An inspiring grassroots initiative by the Central Council of Santo Antônio of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Brazil is bringing faith, food, and fraternity directly to those living on the streets.