In recent years there has been considerable discussion and at times some confusion over the topics of The preferential option for the poor, systemic change and our Vincentian charism.

by Jim Paddon | September 7, 2023 | Formation, Reflections | 0 Comments
As we approach the end of summer here in Canada, for myself and many others, we have had a summer of relaxation and an opportunity to enjoy time with family and exploring new and exciting parts of our vast nation.
by Jim Paddon | June 1, 2023 | Formation, Reflections | 2 Comments
When us older (and hopefully wiser) Vincentians look back on what this world has achieved in our lifetimes it is truly amazing.
by Jim Paddon | May 4, 2023 | Formation, Reflections | 0 Comments
Another spring is upon us with all of its hopes for renewal, whether in our faiths, nature, sports, politics, or family.
by Jim Paddon | April 13, 2023 | Formation, Reflections | 0 Comments
The on-going struggle to introduce and promote social justice within the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in Canada is one that continues to challenge us in many ways.
by Jim Paddon | Jan 21, 2021 | Formation, Reflections
In recent years there has been considerable discussion and at times some confusion over the topics of The preferential option for the poor, systemic change and our Vincentian charism.
by Jim Paddon | Jan 7, 2021 | Formation, Reflections
In recent years there has been considerable discussion and at times some confusion over the topics of The preferential option for the poor, systemic change and our Vincentian charism.
by Jim Paddon | Dec 17, 2020 | Formation, Reflections
The term 2020 vision refers to our eyesight as being near perfect. The year 2020 gave us a vision of many issues…
by Jim Paddon | Jul 12, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
What is a guaranteed basic income? How does it work and how can it help those living in poverty? The concept of providing a guaranteed basic income to all who qualify is an idea that has been around for some time but is a topic that is currently enjoying a higher...
by Jim Paddon | Jun 28, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
I imagine everyone has their own vision of poverty. It is usually a picture of someone dressed poorly, if a man he likely has a beard or long unkempt hair. Women are pictured in old, dirty clothes with no makeup. Poverty can also mean you live in subsidized housing,...
by Jim Paddon | Jun 14, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
The first Principle of Catholic Social Teaching is the Principle of Human Dignity which states that Every human being is created in the image of God and redeemed by Jesus Christ, and therefore is invaluable and worthy of respect as a member of the human family. The...
by Jim Paddon | May 24, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
In Canada we use a fair number of migrant workers in the agricultural field. The federal government offers a temporary seasonal worker program for this need. Many of these workers come from Mexico and other central America countries, as well as Jamaica. While in...
by Elizabeth Astridge | May 15, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
Joanne O’Regan met her first ‘Martha’ in the late 1990s. “I remember thinking, ‘I like the way they are in the world,’” she said Wednesday of her first impression of the Antigonish-based Sisters of St. Martha. Though raised a Roman Catholic in Toronto, O’Regan hadn’t...
by Jim Paddon | May 10, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
Indigenous peoples in Canada include aboriginal First nations peoples living on reserve and in urban locations as well as Inuit, and Metis. The history of relations between Indigenous people and Canadian governments and churches is not a good one, with most actions...
by Jim Paddon | Apr 26, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
In my previous article I mentioned the fact that the Society in Canada, and perhaps other countries, has seen the home visit become more of a delivery service, with little time spent on visiting our neighbours in need. In addition, we have some conferences that no...
by Jim Paddon | Apr 12, 2018 | Formation, Reflections
When the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul began in 1833, the first action undertaken by Frederic Ozanam and his fellow Vincentians was the home visit to those living in poverty. The notion of going out in pairs is one that few in any other organizations attempt and...
by Sr. Roma De Robertis | Mar 27, 2018 | News
VICTORIA, British Columbia – Long-time northern Canadian missionary Sister Fay Trombley received the prestigious Polar Medal from Governor General Julie Payette at Government House here on March 21. The Sister of Charity of the Immaculate Conception (SCIC) has...