The 3rd International Meeting of SSVP Youth brought together more than 120 young Vincentians in Rome
On July 28, 29 and 30, Rome hosted the 3rd International Meeting of Youth of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP). Under the motto “Faith that inspires, love that transforms,” the event brought together more than 120 young Vincentian leaders from various countries, fostering intense moments of formation, exchange, and spirituality.
The main objective of the meeting was to strengthen youth leadership within the Vincentian Movement, to share knowledge, to encourage commitment to the mission and, above all, to motivate young people to persevere on their path of faith and service which, for many, is not without challenges.
The program was led by the SSVP International Youth Delegate, Juliana Rosa da Silva, together with the International Youth Committee, made up of representatives from the following territories:
● Americas: Kat Brissete (America 1), Edgardo Fuentes (America 2), Josmary Centella (America 3)
● Africa: Nicholas Kyalo (Africa 1) and Gijon Cox (Africa 2)
● Asia: Ei Mon (Asia 2), Jacky Cheung (Asia 3)
● MENA (Middle East and North Africa): Johny Baroud
● Oceania: Stephanie Veitch, represented by Ashley
● Europe: Alberto Gabas, Alice Matos (Europe 1) and Kis Balázs (Europe 2)
The meeting was also attended by members of the international board of the General Council, including the 17th SSVP President General, Juan Manuel Gómez, the 1st Vice-President General, Sebastián Gramajo, and Karl Hila, SSVP Commissioner to the UN.
Themes and Reflections
Over the three days, the young people took part in lectures and debates on subjects fundamental to strengthening the Vincentian Movement. Among the topics addressed were:
● Manual of the International Youth Commission
● Recruiting and Evangelizing: Young People Who Embrace the Vincentian Call
● Saints or Nothing: Faith that Inspires, Love that Transforms
● War and Hope: The Power of Solidarity in the SSVP
● Charity Is Also Shared: Making Visible the Invisible of Vincentian Charity
● A Mind that Plans, a Heart that Serves: The National Coordinator as an Inspiration for Vincentian Youth
One of the most noteworthy moments was the round table with the SSVP President General, where young people were able to engage in dialogue, ask questions, and share their realities with the principal leaders of the movement. It was also possible to offer the territories moments to share and to define an action plan for the next steps.
Moments of Fellowship and Spirituality
The program also included moments of relaxation and integration. On the second day, the duo Acoustic Partners enlivened participants with a musical performance that celebrated the cultural diversity of the countries present, in a joyful and fraternal atmosphere.
The official closing of the meeting took place on July 30 with the celebration of Holy Mass in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a place of profound spiritual symbolism for Catholics. The emotion was even greater as the basilica is where the remains of Pope Francis rest.
Participation in the Youth Jubilee and Visit to Historic Cities
After the close of the International Meeting, the young people took part in the activities of the Youth Jubilee, with cultural events throughout Rome. They also had the opportunity to visit Assisi and Cascia, cities that have played a significant role in the history of the Christian faith.
The week concluded with Holy Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV on the Tor Vergata university campus, attended by more than one million young people from around the world.
A Future in the Hands of Vincentian Youth
The 3rd International Meeting of SSVP Youth had as its great mission to sow the seed of change. It is time to think about and plan the future of the SSVP for the next ten years, and that future is in the hands of young Vincentians. Now, back in their countries, these young people return with greater faith, enthusiasm, courage, and hope to continue working for those most in need, inspiring new generations to follow the same path of charity and service, just as Saint Vincent, Ozanam, and the future saint Pier Giorgio Frassati did.
