Today is Feast Day and as St Vincent de Paul taught, “Love is inventive even to infinity,” and each unique example of need is an opportunity to respond with an equally unique face of love. That idea perfectly sums up the SVP.
As the summer sun is replaced by frost and falling temperatures St Vincent de Paul’s message of love takes on a new significance. Millions face an uncertain future as the cost of living crisis escalates and puts everyday essentials out of reach, leaving many with anxiety, frustration and feelings of hopelessness. But the SVP will never turn away from suffering. Through St Vincent de Paul’s teachings we find the strength and fortitude to understand, support and empower those we serve with love, compassion and kindness.
The cost of living crisis challenges us to ask how we build stronger and closer communities to help neighbours to support one another through the coldest months. As we look to rediscover communities on our doorsteps, let us be inspired by St Vincent de Paul’s example of community formation, and the countless examples of the early Church putting faith into action.
The SVP is a community consisting of members, colleagues, those we serve and support, but also those who we are yet to serve. Together we can tackle injustice, empower those in poverty to escape its wicked grasp, and emerge a fairer world.
- Helen O’Shea, SVP National President