Caring for the poor, but also for the Society itself
Brother Renato Lima de Oliveira
The Vincentian vocation leads us, above all, to reach out to those most in need. This has been the case since the very beginnings of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, when those young university students, moved by faith and charity, decided to turn words into concrete acts of love. Caring for the most vulnerable is, therefore, the essence of our mission and the privileged path to encounter Christ himself, present in those who suffer.
In our Vincentian Conferences, this care manifests itself in many ways. The distribution of basic food baskets, for example, is not merely an act of assistance, but a gesture of solidarity that brings foods and hope to families in need. Every home visit made, every fraternal conversation, and every shared prayer become signs that no one is alone in their difficulties.
Also part of this care are initiatives that promote the integral dignity of the human person. The construction of affordable housing, the donation of building materials, the distribution of school supplies to children and youth, and the provision of clothing and medicine: all of these reveal the merciful face of Vincentian charity. They are simple gestures, yet deeply transformative.
The evangelization of those we serve is also very significant. When visiting their homes, Vincentians bring not only material aid, but also a message of faith, an invitation to hope, and the certainty that God walks alongside those most in need. In this way, Vincentian service unites charity and spirituality, action and prayer, human care and trust in God.
However, there is one aspect of this service that often runs the risk of being forgotten or at least underestimated: caring for the Society itself. If we wish to continue serving the poor faithfully, we must also safeguard the institution that makes this mission (so essential to humanity) possible.
This means, above all, focusing on recruiting new members. A Conference that fails to attract new Vincentians risks aging and disappearing within a few years. Inviting, motivating, and training new Vincentians is an act of love for the mission and a guarantee of the continuity of our work on behalf of those in need.
Another essential aspect is the selection of good leaders. Strong, generous, and committed leaders help keep the flame of charity alive. The Society needs leaders who are neither lukewarm nor complacent, but who inspire enthusiasm, organization, and fidelity to the Vincentian charisma. Our Society needs holy leaders, as Ozanam said.
Caring for the SSVP also means safeguarding its assets, managing resources responsibly, complying with the Rules and regulations, and seeking creative ways to raise funds. Financial transparency and the prudent use of assets strengthen the trust of members and benefactors.
Furthermore, it is necessary to lovingly care for the health and well-being of the members themselves. Vincentians who are tired, discouraged and overwhelmed, or who are struggling with emotional or mental health issues, need fraternal support. The Conference must also be a place of friendship, prayer, and spiritual renewal.
Loving the poor is at the heart of the Vincentian vocation. Likewise, loving the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul means ensuring that this mission remains alive for future generations. When we care for the Society with the same zeal with which we serve those in need, we are safeguarding the future of charity.
Thus, true fidelity to the Vincentian spirit manifests itself in two inseparable ways: serving the poor with dedication and preserving, with equal love, the Society that brings us together for this mission. Only in this way will charity continue to flourish and reach those who need it most.
I leave you with a question for all of us to reflect on: Do we care for our Society of Saint Vincent de Paul with the same strength, passion, and dedication with which we care for the people in need whom we serve in our Conferences and social works?
Brother Renato Lima de Oliveira
16th President General International
(2016–2023)