4 July: Vincentian Youth celebrates its International Day under the theme “Hope that embraces the mind and the soul”
Every 4 July, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul celebrates the International Vincentian Youth Day, established in 2017 in honour of St. Pier Giorgio Frassati, its patron, whose liturgical feast is celebrated on the same day. His recent canonisation fills us with joy and reminds us that holiness remains a possible path for today’s young people.
As a member of a Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, St. Pier Giorgio Frassati made faith, friendship and service to those most in need the centre of his life. His well-known motto, Verso l’Alto (“To the Heights”), continues to inspire thousands of Vincentian young people around the world to live a committed faith, close to others and full of hope.
To mark this celebration, the International Youth Committee invites all Conferences to unite under the theme “Vincentian Youth: Hope that embraces the mind and the soul”, highlighting one of the greatest challenges of our time: the mental and spiritual well-being of young people. The initiative reminds us that Christian hope strengthens both mind and heart and encourages us to build communities where everyone feels welcomed, listened to and accompanied.
To help celebrate this day, the International Committee has prepared a guide with prayer, formation and reflection resources, together with practical suggestions that each Conference can adapt to its own reality. These include listening and accompaniment initiatives, mental health gatherings, prayer moments and charitable activities that make hope visible through service.
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul encourages all Councils and Conferences to join this celebration by giving young people a leading role and strengthening their participation in Conference life and in the mission of serving those most in need.
In addition, the Youth Delegation proposes two initiatives:
- Invite all Conferences and Councils to make a donation to support Vincentian Youth activities.
- Take part in the Youth Exchange Programme. For further information: cgi.delegate.youth@ssvpglobal.org
Read the detailed information letter here
Today we give thanks for the Vincentian young people who make Christ’s love visible through their commitment. Since 2017, St. Pier Giorgio Frassati has inspired new generations to live a faith expressed through service and hope.
Happy International Vincentian Youth Day!
Young Vincentian Volunteers from Mexico