Inspiring Vincentians, Empowering Communities, and Creating Lasting Change.
At the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP), the power of collaboration and dialogue is evident in our regional and national meetings. In June, we were honored to attend the regional meeting in Dallas, and in August, the national meeting in Phoenix. These gatherings provided an incredible opportunity for members to come together, exchange ideas, and reaffirm our commitment to serving those in need.
The theme that emerged across SVDP USA is “Adapting to a Changing World,” which is being guided by the initiative called —Vision SVDP. This movement emphasizes that EVERY VOICE MATTERS at the Society. Vision SVDP encourages all of us to rethink how we serve our communities and adapt to the evolving needs of those we assist. It is a time for listening, reflecting, and moving forward together.
As we look around our communities and across the world, we see people in need, trapped in cycles of poverty and homelessness. How can we, as Vincentians, recognize the face of Christ in these brothers and sisters and reflect Christ's love in our encounters with them?
SEE THE FACE OF CHRIST, BE THE FACE OF CHRIST
Our mission is not just about addressing immediate needs. It’s about promoting dignity and alleviating suffering while working towards systemic change that addresses the root causes of poverty. At the National Assembly, we gained insights into becoming more poverty-informed, shifting from a mindset of judgment to one of belief and compassion. We were reminded of the importance of truly listening to those who have been marginalized and building meaningful connections with them. How can we see the face of Christ and be the face of Christ during these personal interactions with those who need us the most?
Our Rule Part 1, Article 1.6 Adapting to a changing world says
“Faithful to the spirit of its founders, the Society constantly strives for renewal, adapting to changing world conditions. It seeks to be ever aware of the changes that occur in human society and the new types of poverty that may be identified or anticipated. It gives priority to the poorest of the poor and to those who are most rejected by society.”
This assembly provided a platform for deep discussions around critical topics, all of which aligned with our theme of adapting to a changing world. Highlights included:
“Easing the Burden of Those Who Suffer,” led by Andrew Bellisario
"Friendship with Community Partners,” presented by Shannon Clancy, CEO of SVDP Phoenix
"People Without Homes: What Can We Do?” by Dr. Donna Beegle
“Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope,” by Nicholas Kristof, journalist and award-winning author
These discussions were more than just conversations—they were opportunities to dive deep into pressing issues and better understand the challenges faced by our communities. As Dr. Donna Beegle emphasized at the National Assembly, "Our neighbors in need are fighting a major battle against poverty." We tend to approach others from our own perspectives, often neglecting to meet our neighbors in need where they are. How can we deepen our understanding of our communities and close the empathy gap that arises from different life experiences and the challenge of relating to one another?
To watch all 2024 SVDP National Assembly keynotes & Panel discussions please click button below.
Established in 1871, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a 501(c)3 faith-based, non-profit organization with the mission to grow spiritually through person-to-person service to all in need in our community. The Society serves 10 counties throughout the greater Houston area. Through a network of more than 50 parish-based chapters, called “Conferences” that have a combined total of 1,700 volunteers, called “Vincentians.” Vincentians respond to the needs of our neighbors through four main pillars. Our work includes Homelessness Prevention, Basic Needs, Resiliency Programs, and Disaster Relief.