Society of St. Vincent de Paul

True acts of compassion often have less to do with material aid and more with making others feel seen, loved, and not alone in their struggles. In visiting those in need, we offer more than assistance—we offer presence, friendship, and a reminder of God’s love that can uplift their spirits long after we’ve gone.

The Rule of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a spiritual guide rooted in the founders’ experience, focused more on holiness and love than rigid procedures. It shapes members to serve the poor with compassion and integrity, always led by God’s call.

John Berry, National President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA, is urging U.S. lawmakers to reject proposed cuts to Medicaid and SNAP that could harm millions of vulnerable Americans. He warns that the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” would deepen poverty and undermine the nation’s moral responsibility to care for the poor.

St. Vincent teaches that serving the poor with love and humility, to the best of our ability, is more important than measurable outcomes, which are the typical standards of worldly success. Though our efforts may seem small or insufficient, they are meaningful when rooted in love, which never runs out and through which God acts.