That’s what Daughter of Charity Catherine Salani says about what it means to be Vincentian in an interview for the Vincentian Family World Youth Day Web site. She will be a keynote speaker at the Vincentian World Youth Days later this year. Here’s the interview:
What does it mean to be a Vincentian?
It means I am an integral part of an evolving family with an indelible spirit – I belong to something bigger, greater, older and newer than me. My family stands by the poor and I believe we make a difference in their lives, as they impact ours. It means I see the world from the vantage point of the poor, reverencing their person, meeting them where they’re at, and inviting others to be changed and challenged by what I see. In all this – the good, the bad and the indifferent – God provides.
What is your favorite song and why?
My favorite song is “We are Family†(… I got all my sisters with me…!) I grew up with three older sisters and this was our
theme song. We danced to it at each of their weddings – as if we were the only ones on the dance floor! I love the connection and happy memories this song evokes.
What is your favorite place on earth?
This is a tough question since I have three! I love the heart of Manhattan and the creativity it exudes. A slow solitary walk on a warm sandy beach
draws me every time. Lastly, wherever my family and friends are, that’s where I’d like to be.
What do you think is unique and wonderful about being a part of the Vincentian Family?
It keeps growing, swelling with the spirit of our Founders! A palpable energy is stirred up when members of the Vincentian Family get together. There’s something for everyone –the needs of the poor are all-inclusive. When we collaborate with others, especially with and for the poor, we effectively build the kingdom – together. “Love is infinitely inventive†and it motivates our efforts. It’s all about building relationships – with God, with others, with the poor, with oneself. If any of these relationships seem impossible or impaired, then we first build bridges.
Vincentian Family World Youth Day Web site
The March, 2008 edition of VinViews features this profile on its front page
Biography: Sister Catherine is a Daughter of Charity from the Northeast Province in Albany, New York, USA. She is an educator at heart with a background in art. Currently, Sister Catherine ministers at St. John’s Bread and Life Soup Kitchen – one of the largest in New York City. When she is not serving a meal to the guests, she is feeding their soul through art and spirituality programs. Prior to this, Sister Catherine gladly served as a Campus Minister at St. John’s University.
Tags: Youth
