Feast of St. Vincent de Paul

St. Vincent de Paul, a humble and compassionate priest, lived in 17th-century France.

Born into poverty in 1581, he overcame personal challenges and adversities to become a beacon of charity and service.Captured by pirates and sold into slavery as a young man, he managed to convert his owner and escape. Upon returning to France, he devoted his life to helping the poor, sick, and oppressed.

Vincent founded the Congregation of the Mission (Lazarists) to preach and serve in rural communities, bringing the message of God's love to those who were often overlooked. Alongside St. Louise de Marillac, he established the Daughters of Charity, a religious community dedicated to caring for the needy and marginalized.

Vincent's initiatives included hospitals, orphanages, and assistance for galley slaves, whom he personally cared for and advocated on behalf of. Throughout his life, Vincent displayed humility, patience, and a deep commitment to serving others. He advocated for the rights and well-being of the oppressed, such as galley slaves, and played a crucial role in revitalizing the priesthood.

Vincent's spiritual journey and dedication to charity earned him sainthood. St. Vincent de Paul's legacy lives on through the religious orders he founded and the ongoing work of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, which continues to provide assistance to those in need around the world. He is remembered for his unwavering faith, his compassion for the less fortunate, and his contributions to the renewal of the Church during a challenging period.

Known as the patron saint of charities; horses; hospitals; leprosy; lost articles; Madagascar; prisoners; Richmond, Virginia; spiritual help; Saint Vincent de Paul Societies; Vincentian Service Corps; volunteers.

Live Liturgically with us by :

• Volunteering at a a local soup kitchen or food bank such as Ozanam Inn or the St. Joseph Rebuild Center.
• Making a donation to a homeless shelter or food pantry.
• Reflect and pray with your family and friends giving thanks for God's gifts in your life and praying for those less fortunate.
• Attend mass
• Learn more about the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Religious Orders:
  • Society of St. Vincent de Paul
  • Daughters of Charity