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Are you a
Vincentian?
Your Parish Conference of the
Society of St. Vincent de Paul invites you to join it in silent works of charity:
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quietly, discreetly aiding needy families.
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personal visits to homes, hospitals,
institutions.
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seeking and serving the distressed.
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growing spiritually through a gift of self to
others.
The Society was born in 1833 in Paris, France -- its founder was a layman, Frederic
Ozanam. By 1845, the first conference in the United States was formed in St. Louis.
The purpose of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is to fulfill the two great Commandments
-- love of God and love of neighbor. We seek out God's needy, spiritually and help where
we can. No need is too great or too small. Sometimes resources are needed -- sometimes we
can do no more than listen and comfort.
Outside the Society itself, no one knows which families are being aided, or what material
and spiritual help has been provided. Vincentians are doctors, office workers, lawyers,
factory workers, housewives, students, retirees -- people just like you.
In coming closer to the needy, you are coming closer to God!
A CONFERENCE
A St. Vincent de Paul Conference consists of 10-12 persons. We meet bi-weekly, pray
together and discuss current cases being handled.
WHEN DO WE MEET?
Meetings are held every other Tuesday night at the St. Vincent de Paul/Samaritan House,
913 S. Littler. Check the Church Bulletin for date and time of meeting.
TRAINING
Vincentians are not professionally trained social workers. The important thing is in the
desire to serve as Jesus served. We can use your expertise, what ever it may be. Many have
raised families, run a household, built buildings, repaired autos or done just what you do
so very well. The needy have need of your talents.
VISITING THE NEEDY
All calls are made in pairs to avoid scandal and to help the recipients feel at ease.
Wherever there is need, Vincentians go two by two and do what they can do to fill the
needs of fellow human beings. Persons to be assisted are to be met "on equal
basis" at their level, never looked down on and always treated as sisters and
brothers in Jesus Christ.
FOLLOW-UP CALLS
In subsequent visits, we attempt to eliminate the underlying cause of the distress. In
this area we try to open doors in the medical, legal, or business fields. Calls are
continued as long as needs exist.
FILLING THE NEED
The Society is not just an "emergency food order giver" -- Vincentians are also
concerned with the needs of the aged, homeless, lonely, handicapped, sick, housebound, and
of persons in nursing homes and hospitals. First, immediate needs are determined. These
are usually food, clothing, shelter or medical help. Material assistance is given on an
emergency basis.
In conclusion, may we say that Christ has just knocked at your door.
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