The Society of Vincent de Paul is an international Catholic organization of men and women who seek, in a spirit of justice and charity; and by person to person involvement, help those who are suffering. Material or moral help is given and is adapted according to a clients particular needs.

 

Vincentians seek through prayer and the Church's teaching to bear witness to the love of Christ. We do not attempt to convert but foster the virtues of faith and charity.

 

The Society of Vincent de Paul had it's start from a chance remark. A 20 years old college student began the Society in Paris in 1833. A loyal Catholic had been defending the Church during a debate with fellow students when one of them asked the question, "What is your Church doing for the poor of Paris?"

 

As SVDP volunteers who meet with families, we can tell you that they help us provide an opportunity to talk about their lives, their despair and their dreams. We learn much when we listen: perhaps a young mother is having difficulty finding a job or childcare so that she can go to school. Someone else may not know where to turn for help to overcome an addiction, or to escape from an abusive partner. That's when we strive to give, along with food or a check, an encouraging word, prayer and helpful advice in the form of referrals and references. We try to plant the seed so that they can take the next step to better their situation.

 

SVDP's focus is to provide emergency assistance and our primary source of funds comes from the parishioners of Star of the Sea. On the first Sunday of each month - a second collection is taken in support of our work. Donations may also be sent to the church office. We thank you for your interest and support, and hope you will visit this page again as we post periodic news bulletins on our work.

 

 

Update

I’m reminded of the story where Jesus fed the 5,000. Our financial gifts are often small, the cost of a few fish or loaves of bread, yet they can go so far in feeding the needs of the poor. We received a call from a 26-year-old single parent who requested $60 to pay for a smog test so that she could drive to work. She was working part-time while attending school to learn computer skills. At age 16, the oldest of 7 children, she had run away from home to get away from the drug and alcohol culture her mom and siblings were immersed in. This young woman had just moved into her own apartment and was doing her best to get thru life. Her faith was inspiring. “I couldn’t do it without Jesus. I attend the Christ Mission Baptist Church 2 times a week and Jesus is the reason I’m making it.” We prayed together for several minutes and left. What a humbling experience knowing that God had somehow used us to bless and affirm this woman on her path to life!