Inspired by Gospel values, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic lay organization, leads women and men to join together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those who are needy and suffering in the tradition of its founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul.
As a reflection of the whole family of God, Members, who are known as Vincentians, are drawn from every ethnic and cultural background, age group, and economic level. Vincentians are united in an international society of charity by their spirit of poverty, humility and sharing, which is nourished by prayer and reflection, mutually supportive gatherings and adherence to a basic Rule.
Organized locally, Vincentians witness God’s love by embracing all works of charity and justice. The Society collaborates with other people of good will in relieving need and addressing its causes, making no distinction in those served because, in them, Vincentians see the face of Christ.
Values
Holiness of Life
Growth in intimacy with Jesus is a life-long process
Prayer is essential, personal and communal
Service of the Poor
The dignity of the human person
The preferential option for the poor
The identification of Jesus with the poor
Humility
The virtue of humility, personal and corporate
Poverty in spirit is the primary Beatitude
Simplicity
The virtue of simplicity
Jesus is the Evangelizer and Servant of the Poor
Divine Providence
Charity
The Society is concerned with charity and justice
The virtue of charity within and outside of the Society
Solidarity
Community of Faith
Friendship
Community
More specific areas to learn more about St. Vincent de Paul:
