September 9: Feast of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam

The Catholic Church, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP), and the Vincentian Family celebrate on 9 September the feast of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, principal founder of the SSVP, whose liturgical memorial was set by the Vatican because the date of his death (8 September) coincides with the Feast of the Nativity of Mary.

On that day, the International General Council recommends that all members of the Conferences take an active part in Holy Mass, asking the priest to include three intentions in the celebration:

• for the memory of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, as an example of an active lay person in the life of the Church;
• for the members of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul throughout the world; and
• for the people assisted by the Conferences and Special Works across the globe.

The International General Council further encourages and suggests that Conferences and Councils promote the formidable figure of Ozanam in their events and in the media. In Ozanam, we should highlight the indispensable expression of Christian faith through works of charity and the pursuit of justice, just as our Lord Jesus Christ taught us to love and serve those most in need.