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06-26-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
06-26-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Mentoring

When I think of mentoring, several people come to mind depending on the stage of life I am reflecting on. Did I recognize at the time their impact on my life? Not often. Did I ever see myself moving into the role of mentor? No, and “What would I have to offer?” was typically the response I had. Little did I know the plans God had for me. Do you find yourself thinking something similar when you see the word mentor or when you are asked to take on a leadership role in SVdP?

To begin, I ask you to reflect on shared experiences.

Growing up, did you willingly enter into acts of service? Like me, it may have depended on the type of service. In my youth, I somewhat willingly took on tasks like making meals and canning vegetables. These tasks, much like mentorship, were significant and integral to the functioning of our household. On the contrary, I strategically stacked dishes on the counter with no intent to wash them, understanding the importance of my duty but purposely prolonging the process of actually washing the dishes. Whether mentorship to you is more like reluctantly washing dishes to me, I hope you can relate and understand the significance of your role in it.

I continue to ask you to reflect on shared experiences. How do your words line up with your actions and how does that affect your role as a mentor? I tend to hurry and quickly want results, yet I tell my children to take a peaceful approach to life. How have I tried to mitigate this somewhat reckless approach in my actions vs my words that seem to have the opposite meaning? My approach — intentionally reflecting on scripture before the rest of the household comes alive. I love mornings and the joy that comes with a new day, like unlimited potential, anticipation for what God has planned for me, and the peace of God-centered direction that comes from this routine. Intentionality is vital and that relief of busyness comes in service to others and the providential relationships I encounter daily. How well you know your talents or needed areas of improvement may determine your ability to provide mentorship.

We look to Youth, Young Adults and Emerging Leaders (YYAEL) to embrace this humble servant leadership vocation we live as Vincentians, but how to make that a reality is the burning question. We all have a place for this need, even if youth are already active in your local SVdP. We all want authentic and humble leaders to effectively guide our efforts locally and must work to achieve that desired outcome. Sound familiar?

This is where the last part of YYAEL provides a workable solution — the Emerging Leaders Team (ELT). Vincentian experiences and opportunities in leadership at a national level. ELT allows for growth in spirituality and friendship through service designed for our YYA members. I think a few things will help us connect YYA with our existing, more familiar Conference Life. Ultimately, we want to kindle the Vincentian flame rooted in Catholic ethos and the love of putting others first and ourselves last, or what I consider a lifelong Vincentian mentality.

With this in mind, here are three things to consider:

  1. The first consideration in aiding YYA (Youth and Young Adults) is to assess yourself and be honest with what you discover. Be willing to explore the tough topics and uncomfortable parts of life. If you can openly share your areas of improvement, YYA will see your authentic approach and guidance as something worth considering. I learned quickly to be who I am, and God will handle the rest. I am not in control, so why try to hide all my frailties? YYA need an honest approach to being a Vincentian, which can be achieved through authentic mentorship. 
  2. Second, surround yourself with “good” people. Who are your people, your circle, or those closest to you regularly — daily, weekly, monthly? When I step back and see through a providential lens, I can see how people may fit into my life. I know the relationship with this person is a means of growing closer to who God has called me to be through service to others. I process the challenges and find ways to continue or mend the relationship. At times, I need as much guidance as I feel called to provide under the label mentor. Again, receiving the ebb and flow of the relationship with this person directly seen as an angel from God, I can See the face of Christ and Be the face of Christ through mentorship.
  3. Third, schedule a time to connect. Again, ask yourself a series of questions to gauge your commitment. What amount of time do you want to invest in a potential relationship? Are you willing to allow for flexibility in scheduling? Will you tolerate or address the possible frustration of last-minute cancellations, delayed responses, or meetings on the fly? When we start any relationship, time is needed to establish a routine that allows for flexibility and honesty. This approach can make me uncomfortable, but the reward outweighs the uneasiness if I let God lead.

With YYA, the same approach can lead to a lasting relationship. It may be a longer or shorter time of discernment. What happens in that space of time? Hopefully, mentorship ignites, and a desire to walk with this person is kindling. You allow for the ups and downs of interacting, assessing the demands of life, and ultimately working through these distractions that impede our relationship with God. I find myself sharing the dos and don’ts of life with my children in hopes of them avoiding some of the same pitfalls of selfishness, loneliness, and an overall lack of faith I experience when I am not in alignment with God’s will.

That is our directive for being a member of the Society — growing in holiness. What better way to do it than walking with our YYA as they embark on the changes in these life stages. I am guessing most of us have a few pointers worth sharing. The wisdom of our fellow Vincentians is not tied to age or other demographics. It is tied to our encounters. Conversations that involve both parties listening and hearing one another that make a lasting impact. I learn many things when I take my motives out of the equation, in turn providing a service to others and tending to the spiritual aspects of that relationship. Intentionality, self-awareness, and honesty surface as the means to friendship through mentorship.

These are not hard and fast things to follow when considering a mentorship role with someone. Instead, I see these ideas as a way to start the process and allow God to develop that exact path as you encounter one another as Vincentians. Like our friends in need, when I focus on the encounter offered with mentorship vs. the material help, desired outcome, or number “helped,” I find myself enjoying and adapting to the journey instead of wanting to finish the ride.

May you, too, see value in mentorship with those you have been called to serve in this way. Listen, hear, reflect, and stay the course. Are we not already mentoring someone in one way or another? We are Vincentians, and it seems to be a key to our growing in holiness. I know I have much to learn and continue to receive the fruits of being an unlabeled mentee to some pretty great Vincentians who might not identify as mentors, but you are to me. So thank you, S, C, M, J, K, D, A, R, Z, C…and now you have “The Rest of the Story. Good day!”

 

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06-19-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
06-19-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Finding Hope in God’s Unexpected Gifts

Two weeks ago, in my Servant Leader column, I wrote about the temptation of doing too much and the need to avoid falling into the trap of trying to save the world, while only  hurting yourself.

That column received a lot of comments on the National website, and people expressed appreciation for what I said. I am extremely glad for that, because it is my prayer that the columns I write provide some value for those of you who read them.

But some people reached out to me privately (you can ALWAYS do that by sending me an email at jberry@svdpusa.org) and asked for more. How, they asked, can we become renewed. How do we face the daily challenges of life without just throwing up our hands and walking away?

Let’s face it. This is an incredibly stressful and challenging time for all of us. I do not care if you are a conservative or a liberal, a Democrat or a Republican, or someone who is just trying to get along, these are unsettling times. Wars, division, vitriolic discourse, violence in our streets. If you are not stressed, you are not awake.

But you know what? This is not the first time we’ve lived through contentious times, and it will not be the last. Life, in its unpredictable journey, often brings us to moments that feel unbearably heavy. There are times when everything seems to go wrong — relationships falter, dreams crumble, health fails, or loneliness creeps in. In these moments, the world can appear colorless, and hope can feel like a distant memory. Yet, for those who are willing to open their hearts, there is a profound truth: Even in the darkest times, God has a way of offering us hope, often in the most unexpected forms. It is in moments of despair that, if we are receptive, we can see the gentle, persistent ways in which God reaches out to us, reminding us that we are never truly alone.

Suffering is an inescapable part of being human. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, the pain of betrayal, or the weight of personal failure, everyone has times when life simply stinks. These periods can feel endless, and the temptation to give in to despair is real.

For many, faith is both a refuge and a challenge during suffering. It is easy to believe in God’s goodness when life is going great, but faith is truly tested when the storms come. The question arises: Where is God when everything falls apart? The answer, though not always immediate or obvious, often lies in the subtle ways God communicates with us — through people, moments, and even the quiet stirrings of our own hearts.

Gifts of Hope/Our Essential Elements

When life is at its lowest, hope can arrive in the most unexpected ways. Sometimes, it is a kind word from a stranger, a sunrise after a sleepless night, or a song that plays just when you need it most. Other times, it is the unwavering support of a friend, a passage of scripture that speaks directly to your pain, or a sudden sense of peace that defies explanation. These are not coincidences; they are reminders that God is present, working behind the scenes, orchestrating moments of grace.

Consider the story of Elijah. After a great victory, Elijah found himself running for his life, exhausted and ready to give up. He cried out to God, expressing his hopelessness and desire to die. Yet, in his lowest moment, God sent an angel to provide food and rest. Later, God spoke to Elijah not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. This story illustrates that God’s hope often comes quietly, requiring us to listen with open hearts.

Receiving hope from God is not a passive act; it requires openness and vulnerability. When we close ourselves off in bitterness or despair, we risk missing the subtle ways God is trying to reach us. Opening our hearts means being willing to see beyond our pain, to look for signs of grace even when circumstances seem bleak.

This openness is an act of faith. It is choosing to believe that, despite appearances, God is still at work. It is trusting that, as the Psalmist wrote, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). It is allowing ourselves to be surprised by joy, to find beauty in brokenness, and to accept that hope can coexist with sorrow.

Many of you, no doubt, can attest to moments when, just as they were about to give up, something shifted, providing an unmistakable sign of hope. For some, it is the birth of a child after years of longing. For others, it is a job opportunity that arrives at just the right time, or a reconciliation with a long-lost friend. And for many of us, it was a personal encounter with someone in need that we helped through our work as a Vincentian. These moments offer a reminder that life, even at its worst, is not devoid of meaning or purpose. Those moments of renewal remind us why our vocation as Vincentians is so powerful and can help remind us that our essential elements of Spiritual Growth and Friendship are deepened by the element of Service, thus forming a trinity of interrelated gifts that can strengthen and renew us.

These moments of clarity are so powerful because it aligns with a sense of God’s presence, providing reassurance and hope exactly when you need it most. They should anchor our trust in God, reinforce our belief that He hears and responds, and encourage us to move forward with confidence, even in uncertainty. This direct experience of God’s guidance transforms faith from an abstract belief into a lived reality, deepening our relationship with Him and empowering us to face future challenges with greater resilience and hope.

Often, and powerfully, God’s hope comes through the people around us. This is why Friendship is such a vital and important Essential Element of our Vincentian charism. A supportive community can be a lifeline in times of trouble. When we are open about our struggles, we invite others to share in our burdens and to offer comfort. In turn, we become vessels of hope for others, allowing God’s love to flow through us. Friendship does not just mean coffee and donuts at a Conference meeting! It means being there as a lifeline for our Vincentian sisters and brothers who are teetering on the edge, who need us to be the conduit to bring them to God.

So too, is our Essential Element of Service. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can be powerful reminders of God’s presence. A meal delivered to a grieving family, a note of encouragement, or a listening ear can be the very thing that helps someone hold on. In giving and receiving compassion, we take part in the divine work of bringing hope to a hurting world.

Suffering is Not the End of the Story

In the end, hope is not the denial of suffering, but the assurance that suffering is not the end of the story. By opening our hearts to God’s gifts, we allow ourselves to be surprised by grace, to find light in the darkness, and to discover that, even when life is at its worst, we are never without hope.

Peace and God’s blessings,

John

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06-05-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
06-05-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

“It is a ruse of the devil, by which he deceives good people, to induce them to do more than they are able, so that they end up not being able to do anything. The spirit of God urges one gently to do the good that can reasonably be done, so that it may be done perseveringly and for a long time.” – St. Vincent de Paul

As I visit with Councils or Conferences, or attend SVdP meetings across the country, I hear about the impact that stress and burnout is having on our Vincentians. Too many cases…not enough money…not enough caseworkers. People are doing too many Encounters in a week. Encounters are becoming transactional instead of spiritual experiences. These are leading to burnout and frustration, and more importantly, they prevent us from growing spiritually in our service to people in need.

Burnout often begins with a holy desire: “I want to help. I want to sacrifice. I want to make a difference.” But the evil one twists this virtue into vice. He whispers, “If you rest, you’re selfish. If you say ‘no,’ you’re failing God.” Before long, we’re like Martha in Luke 10:40, “anxious and troubled about many things,” resentful of our own service.

How many of you have felt the subtle voice that whispers, “You could do more”? How many have looked at the endless line of need before you and thought, “If I just work a little harder, stay a little later, sacrifice a little more of myself, perhaps I can make the difference”? This voice masquerades as the call of conscience, as the voice of love itself. But Vincent warns us, this is deception dressed in the clothes of virtue.

St. Vincent called this “the devil’s ruse,” and it’s particularly insidious because it appeals to what is best in us. He takes our love for the poor, our genuine desire to serve Christ in the least of our brothers and sisters, and he whispers, “More, always more.” He convinces us that our worth is measured by our exhaustion, that true love demands we burn ourselves out completely. He makes us believe that to set any boundary, to acknowledge any limitation, is to fail in our calling.

The devil doesn’t need us to stop serving; he simply needs us to serve in a way that drains our souls. He knows that a burned-out volunteer, however well-intentioned, cannot reflect the love of Christ. When we push beyond our limits, we risk becoming like the lamp in the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), burning brightly for a time, but eventually sputtering out, with no oil left to sustain the flame.

Rooted in the Love of Christ

The deepest spiritual truth Vincent reveals is this: God’s way preserves us for the long haul. The gentle spirit that allows us to do reasonable good ensures that we can do it “perseveringly and for a long time.” God is not interested in spectacular burnouts that flame bright and die quickly. God is interested in steady flames that burn consistently, giving light and warmth year after year, decade after decade.

The poor and marginalized we serve need us to be whole, not broken. They need us to serve from a place of strength, not depletion.

Why do we feel this relentless pressure to do more?

Some of it comes from the real needs around us. The poor are still hungry. The sick are still suffering. The injustices still cry out. But some of that pressure also comes from within, from pride, from perfectionism, from fear that we are not enough unless we are constantly producing, constantly giving, constantly saying “yes.”

But our identity is not rooted in our performance. It is rooted in the love of Christ.

We are not loved because we serve. We serve because we are loved.

The Lord does not ask us to save the world. That job is already taken. He asks only that you do your part, with love, and that you trust Him to fill in the rest.

Consider Jesus Himself. Did you ever notice how often Jesus rested? He withdrew to lonely places to pray. He got in a boat and went to the other side. He even slept through a storm. The Savior of the world, perfect love in the flesh, knew when to stop.

If even Jesus rested, how can we think ourselves holier for working ourselves to the bone?

St. Vincent gives us the answer: Do the good that can reasonably be done, so that it may be done perseveringly and for a long time.

A Different Type of Courage

This kind of goodness is not flashy. It doesn’t make headlines. But it is faithful. It is rooted in reality. It listens to the limitations of the body, the mind, and the heart. And it lasts. It reminds us that we are branches, not the vine. We cannot produce fruit unless we abide in the Vine, unless we rest in Christ.

So, I call you today to a different kind of courage, the courage to trust God’s gentle spirit rather than the harsh demands of false urgency. The courage to do reasonable good rather than impossible good. The courage to serve perseveringly rather than spectacularly.

It’s this courage that will allow you to trust that God’s work will continue even when you step back to breathe. Remember that the same God who calls you to serve also calls commands you to love yourself as you love your neighbor.

So, rest when you need to rest.

Say no when you need to say no.

Seek help when you need help.

If you are empty, be filled.

If you are questioning, bring your questions to the One who holds the answers.

Take time to pray, not out of duty, but out of hunger.

Take time to laugh, because joy is holy.

Take time to say no, because that too can be an act of faith.

In short, let yourself be human again.

And when you do serve, serve not as one who must fix everything, but as one who trusts God is already at work.

Remember what St. Vincent knew so well: it is better to do a little good with great love and do it for a long time, than to do too much and lose yourself (and lose the mission) in the process.

The poor will still be with us tomorrow. But so, thank God, will His mercies, new every morning.

May you be filled with that mercy today.

And may you serve from it.

 

Peace and God’s blessings,

John

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05-22-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
05-22-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Embracing the Call to Servant Leadership

With just over four months left in our fiscal year, many presidents are approaching the end of their terms. Some feel relieved and are looking forward to transitioning into a mentoring role. For others, however, it brings mounting anxiety as they struggle to find someone willing to step into the role. My sense is that many fall into the latter group.

So, what exactly is a Servant Leader, and why is it often so difficult to find Vincentians willing to embrace this role?

When we think of the ultimate Servant Leader, we naturally look to Jesus. His entire ministry was centered around serving others. He led not by authority or position, but through humility and compassion. His words in Mark 10:45 remind us:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

In more recent times we first find the term servant leadership in an essay, titled “The Servant as Leader,” first published in 1970 by Robert K. Greenleaf. Greenleaf emphasized that the core of true leadership is a commitment to serve first—and lead second.

By that definition, every Vincentian is a servant leader. Our very mission is to serve those in need with love, respect, and humility. And yet when it comes to taking on leadership roles—especially as president—there is often hesitation. Why is that? Why does the idea of leadership feel intimidating or burdensome, rather than an extension of our Vincentian calling?

Here are some common reasons Vincentians give for not stepping into leadership roles:

  • “I don’t have the time.”
  • “I don’t have the skills to be president.”
  • “I can’t add another meeting to my schedule.”

These concerns are understandable—but they don’t tell the whole story. Many Vincentians already manage busy schedules, attend various meetings, and juggle other commitments. What’s truly needed in a Servant Leader is not a résumé full of technical skills, but a caring heart, a love for the Society, and the ability to inspire and support others.

You don’t have to be an accountant or a corporate executive to serve as president. What you do need is the wisdom to recognize and empower the gifts of others within your conference or council. A good Servant Leader builds a team, draws on the talents of members, and fosters spiritual growth.

Reflecting on my own journey, I’ve been shaped and encouraged by other Vincentians who saw leadership potential in me long before I recognized it in myself. When I had an idea, they encouraged me to pursue it. When I initially declined a council board position due to my work schedule—before the days of Zoom—a leader found another way for me to serve, using my teaching skills to benefit member formation. That encouragement and guidance eventually led me to embrace my own role in Servant Leadership for the West Region.

Here’s what I’ve learned: A Servant Leader doesn’t need to have all the answers or do everything alone. They simply need to be willing to see others—to listen, to guide, to invite, and to trust. Much like our home visits with neighbors in need, the president’s role is rooted in relationship and empathy. Just as we leave those neighbor visits with full hearts, so too does the Servant Leader find deep fulfillment in watching fellow Vincentians grow and thrive in their vocation.

As a leader, I stay connected with members through calls, emails, Zoom, and in-person meetings. These moments aren’t obligations—they are opportunities. I am consistently filled with gratitude for the love and dedication of our members. In sharing what I’ve learned and listening to their challenges, I see God’s hand at work in our Society.

And I never walk this path alone—none of us do. Every conference and council president has support: from their fellow officers, from regional and national leaders, and from the wider Vincentian family. We are One Society. Just as we serve the poor together, we also support one another.

Servant Leadership has been a blessing in my life—deepening my faith, broadening my perspective, and bringing countless moments of grace. My prayer is that you will see this role not as a burden, but as a calling. If you’re asked to serve, take it to prayer. Trust that God sees something in you that you may not yet see in yourself.

Will you consider saying “yes”?

Let your answer be guided by the Holy Spirit, grounded in love for the Society, and open to the joy that comes from serving others.

Judy Dietlein
National Vice President, West Region

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05-15-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
05-15-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

I have been reading Victor Gaetan’s book ‘God’s Diplomats: Pope Francis, Vatican Diplomacy, and America’s Armageddon.’ It is a fascinating and highly readable exploration of the Catholic Church’s evolving approach to global conflict resolution and peace building, emphasizing the Church’s shift from the “just war” tradition to a “just peace” framework rooted in dialogue, impartiality, and long-term relational engagement. Central to this transformation is the Church’s commitment to advocacy as a proactive, faith-driven pursuit of justice that transcends partisan politics and prioritizes the marginalized.

The book tells the story of how the Vatican’s diplomatic corps operates on principles that defy convention. Unlike nations that leverage military or economic power, the Church’s advocacy is grounded in neutrality, humility, and grassroots engagement. Key rules include avoiding “winners and losers,” remaining impartial, and “walking the talk” through charitable acts. For instance, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Pope John XXIII’s discreet diplomacy helped de-escalate tensions by appealing to shared humanity rather than partisan interests. Similarly, in Colombia, local Catholic peacebuilders demonstrated how sustained, community-driven advocacy can counter cycles of violence.

Right about now you are probably saying “OK, John, that’s nice, but this isn’t a book club. What’s your point and why should I care?”

Fair question!

I think that we learn every day from observing others. And the insights and lessons in this book are things that relate to our work as Vincentians. They help us understand that we are not just transactional check writers and one-off suppliers of aid and support to people in need.

The approach that underlies the Vatican’s diplomatic work reflects a broader theological vision that we should understand and seek to mirror: the Church’s role as a “field hospital” (a metaphor often used by Pope Francis) that heals wounds without judgment. By prioritizing relationships over transactional victories, Vatican diplomats model a form of advocacy that aligns with Christ’s call to “love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44) and seek peace through understanding.

The Church’s diplomatic ethos finds practical expression in Catholic nonprofits like St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) and others who blend direct service with systemic advocacy. Our work in advocacy must be as integral a part of who and what we are as our direct service to the people in need who come to us.

Further, our focus on advocacy must be to “Influence decision-making to promote justice and solidarity, emphasizing policy changes that address root causes of poverty.” This mirrors the Vatican’s long-term, dialogue-focused strategies.

An area where SVdP has always advocated and continues to advocate locally and nationally is economic justice. This includes affordable housing and just wages, reflecting Pope Leo XIII’s defense of workers’ rights in Rerum Novarum (1891), which condemned exploitation and called for equitable labor practices. And he further insisted that governments must prioritize the vulnerable, asserting that “the rich must religiously refrain from cutting down the workmen’s earnings” through unfair policies.

Advocacy for the poor is not optional in Catholic teaching; it is a requirement of faith. Jesus’s proclamation to “bring good news to the poor” (Luke 4:18) and His identification with the marginalized (“Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me,” Matthew 25:40) form the bedrock of this mission.

The teachings of our faith have continued from Luke through the ages and is reflected in many of the recent Papal teachings from Pope Leo the XIII to Pope Francis (and I am sure will continue under Pope Leo XIV). Pope Francis, in Evangelii Gaudium, said “There is an inseparable bond between our faith and the poor.” He condemned an “economy of exclusion” and urged believers to “lend a ready hand” to dismantle systemic injustice.

Pope St. John Paul II highlighted the “preferential option for the poor” as non-negotiable, urging Catholics to “discern the justice of the poor’s requests and help satisfy them.”

In the book, Gaetan acknowledges that Church diplomacy is not without failures, such as divisions in Kenya where ethnic rivalries fractured local Catholic communities. Similarly, nonprofits like SVDP face hurdles like political polarization and resource constraints. Yet, the Church’s emphasis on patient dialogue and grassroots empowerment offers a model that rejects short-term, partisan solutions. So too, must we focus our advocacy efforts on experience-based, story-driven, real-world examples about the people we serve so as to help drive change through dialogue.

It is vital that we, both nationally and locally, increase our involvement in advocacy for the poor and marginalized because, as the Church’s diplomatic model demonstrates, real, lasting change for the vulnerable comes through sustained, humble engagement and a “culture of encounter.” Vatican diplomacy is effective precisely because it avoids partisanship, seeks common ground, and prioritizes the dignity, power, and resources of those most affected by conflict and poverty. This approach is not only a diplomatic strategy but a moral imperative that should inspire us to move beyond charity alone and engage in advocacy that addresses systemic injustices.

God’s Diplomats provides a guide to how the Church and SVdP USA can use advocacy not as a political tactic but as a sacrament of solidarity. By marrying spiritual principles with pragmatic action, the Vatican and Catholic nonprofits like us embody a vision of justice that transcends borders. As Pope Francis reminded us, “Mere condemnation is not enough; we must act.” In a world fractured by inequality and conflict, this call to advocacy, rooted in the Gospel and refined by centuries of social teaching, remains as urgent as ever.

The synergy between Vatican diplomacy and grassroots nonprofits underscores a timeless truth: defending the marginalized is not just a policy preference but a divine mandate. Whether brokering peace between superpowers or lobbying for affordable housing, the Church’s mission remains the same: to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).

 

Peace and God’s blessings,

John

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04-24-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
04-24-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

A Shepherd to the Poor: Remembering Pope Francis

In the passing of Pope Francis, the world has lost not only the Bishop of Rome but a tireless voice for the voiceless, a prophet of mercy, and a shepherd whose heart beat in time with the most forgotten of God’s children. For those of us who have dedicated our lives to serving the poor and marginalized through our vocation to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, his life was a living gospel—both a challenge and a consolation.

From the moment he stepped out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in 2013 and simply bowed his head, asking the people for their blessing before offering his own, it was clear we had a different kind of pope. He took the name “Francis,” after the humble saint of Assisi, and like that saint, he walked a path of radical simplicity, compassion, and solidarity with the poor.

He reminded us time and again that the Christian faith is not an abstraction. It is not a comfortable theory. It is a call to action — a call to love. And not the easy kind of love that stays within the boundaries of polite society, but the kind of love that stoops down to wash the feet of the homeless, that listens to the cries of the refugee, that welcomes the addict, the broken, the excluded.

In his World Day of the Poor messages, Pope Francis poured out his heart to those on the margins, and to those who serve them. In 2021, he wrote, “The poor, always and everywhere, evangelize us, because they enable us to discover in new ways the true face of the Father.” For those of us in this mission, we know the truth of those words. We have encountered Christ in the trembling hands of the hungry, in the eyes of a woman fleeing abuse, in the fragile hope of someone who has lost everything but still believes in grace.

Pope Francis was not content to merely speak about the poor — he went to them. He visited hospitals, refugee camps, prisons, and homeless shelters. He embraced lepers, kissed the feet of migrants, dined with the homeless. His actions said loudly what his words reinforced: “We are called to discover Christ in them, to lend our voice to their causes, but also to be their friends, to listen to them, to speak for them and to embrace the mysterious wisdom which God wishes to share with us through them.” (World Day of the Poor, 2017)

Francis taught that charity is not simply about giving — it is about relationship. About drawing near. About breaking down the barriers that divide “us” and “them.” He wrote, “The poor are not people ‘outside’ our communities, but brothers and sisters whose sufferings we should share, in an effort to alleviate their difficulties and marginalization.” (World Day of the Poor, 2020) That vision transformed the Church. It transformed each of us.

Many of us who serve, in our encounters at people’s homes, at shelters, at food pantries, and at recovery programs, saw in Pope Francis the embodiment of what we hope to be. His humility did not diminish his authority — it deepened it. His tenderness did not weaken his leadership — it defined it. He reminded us that the Church is most fully herself not when she stands in splendor, but when she kneels beside the wounded.

We loved Pope Francis not because he made our work easier, but because he made it holier. He called us to more. To see our volunteerism not as a duty, but as a Eucharistic act—a way of becoming bread broken and shared for others. He saw the poor not as a problem to solve, but as people to love. And he called on the whole Church to “go out to the peripheries,” where, he reminded us, Christ Himself is waiting.

In 2023, he wrote: “Where the poor are concerned, it is not talk that matters; what matters is rolling up our sleeves and putting our faith into practice through a direct involvement, one that cannot be delegated.” He never let us off the hook. And thank God he didn’t. Because of him, countless hearts were lit with a fire of compassion, and many who once looked away from the poor began to look into their eyes—and see Christ.

Now, as we mourn him, we also thank God for the gift of his life. We thank God for the man who reminded us that the smell of the sheep is a sweet fragrance to the Good Shepherd. That mercy is the greatest expression of justice. That to serve the poor is not just a noble option—it is the heart of the Gospel.

1 John says, “Let us love, not with words but with deeds.” And oh how he lived that love every day of his papacy. He loved with his presence, with his simplicity, with his unwavering focus on those the world forgets.

For those of us in the trenches of mercy, in the homes of those in need, in the food lines and the shelter dormitories, in the hospital rooms and dining rooms, we carry his legacy forward. We will go on loving, not with words, but with deeds. We will go on seeing Christ in the poor, and we will go on knowing that Pope Francis is still praying for us — from the heavenly peripheries — still urging us to keep walking, keep loving, keep serving.

May his memory bless the Church. May his vision animate our mission. And may we, like him, choose every day to live a faith that comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable — until every tear is wiped away, and the poor are poor no more.

Peace and God’s blessings,

John

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04-17-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
04-17-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

VisionSVdP Phase III

In today’s Frédéric’s Five, you will find links to all the data from the VisionSVdP Listening Sessions held in 2024. There is a lot of data in there — and a lot of information to look over and read. It is fascinating to see the comments from Vincentians from all over the country about their thoughts, feelings, and ideas regarding the future of SVdP USA! I urge you to jump in and look through the comments of your brother and sister Vincentians.

As we have begun a preliminary analysis of the comments, there have been some emerging themes that have been identified.  These include:

  • Advocacy & Social Justice
  • Collaboration & Partnership
  • Communication & Outreach
  • Home Visit & Service Delivery
  • Membership & Recruitment
  • Organizational Structure & Governance
  • Resource Allocation & Fundraising
  • Special Works
  • Spirituality & Core Values
  • Technology Adoption
  • Training & Formation

Of these Emerging themes, the Top 5 that had comments associated with them were:

  • Home Visit & Service Delivery
  • Spirituality & Core Values
  • Membership & Recruitment
  • Organizational Structure & Governance
  • Communication & Outreach

We will be addressing these five areas in Phase III of VisionSVdP. However, there are many themes not in the top five that can easily be considered ‘subcategories’ of those five. For example, Technology Adoption is a prime candidate as a subcategory of both Organizational Structure & Governance and of Communication & Outreach. So all of the common themes are going to be addressed, as well as all other comments, in one way or another.

So, where do we go from here?

Beginning June 1, Working Groups will form at the Conference and/or Council level to begin discussion, developing suggested actions and recommendations for a specific subject. Each Working Group will focus on ONE THEME from the five above.

Instructions and materials for the Working Groups will be sent out in mid-May.

Approximately September 1, all Working Group recommendations will be sent to the highest-level Council (the Council represented by a National Council Member [NCM]).

The Council will create a Working Group that will take up all submitted recommendations and create one Council Report of Recommendations and Actions for each of the five themes above. This needs to be completed by December 1, 2025.

The Council will then elect two Delegates to the National VisionSVdP Congress, to be held in the first Quarter of 2026. These Delegates cannot be the NCM, and one Delegate should hold no Office at the Council or Conference level if possible.

All expenses for the Congress will be paid by the National Council. The Congress is anticipated to be three days of intensive work and will develop a final set of recommendations and actions.

Have a Blessed Easter.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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04-10-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
04-10-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

A Spiritual Lyft

Do you ever feel like you need a spiritual lift?

Last week, I started my journey of much needed spiritual lifts by spending a phenomenal day with over 300 Vincentians at St. Vincent de Paul Georgia’s Annual Spring to Life Assembly. It was so inspiring to see so many Vincentians coming together to grow closer together in spiritual friendship.

I got a priceless spiritual “lyft” by the method I used to get to the Georgia gathering. I was staying at a nearby Atlanta hotel and got a Lyft ride to the event. When I entered the rideshare vehicle, I said good morning and hello to my driver Linda. I complimented her about her warm welcome, and we started a wonderful conversation.

I asked her if she was from Georgia, and she told me  she and her family moved to Atlanta decades ago from up north, and they stayed because they loved it. As our conversation continued, she shared with me that her husband had passed away recently, and that she was driving to make ends meet.

She asked me where I was from, and I told her about Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She asked, “What brings you to our big city?”

I told her I was going to speak at a St. Vincent de Paul meeting, and the entire environment in the car changed with those simple words — a good conversation turned into a priceless encounter. It felt like the Holy Spirit entered the car with us.

Her face lit up with a smile, which served as an incredible testimony of how much our Society had touched her life. She shared that when her family moved to Atlanta many decades ago, times were tough, and the Society was there for her family when they could not pay all the rent.

As our encounter continued, she shared that when she lost her husband, the Society was there again to help her with some expenses that could have put her out on the street. She talked about St. Vincent de Paul and Catholics being phenomenal Christians. She added that St. Vincent de Paul is one group that has a long and distinguished history of service and an organization you can always count on.

Linda then shared with me her faith journey. She was an elder in her Protestant Church and loved to do prison ministry.

I asked her if she would like me to share her story, and what message she would want me to give to those members of the Society at the gathering.

She said, “Yes, please let them know that there is no other charity like St. Vincent de Paul, because of its members. Let them know how they touched my family, and kept hope alive for us during difficult times! Express to them that in our time of need, we knew they were Christians by their love.”

As Vincentians, we live for the blessing of having encounters with our neighbors in need. We all experience these priceless encounters during Home Visits, serving at special works, providing clothing and essentials through our thrift stores, and even Lyft rides.

My week was full of so many special spiritual lifts. After the Georgia assembly, I was blessed to meet and be with the Society’s International Board. It was a spiritual lift to hear how our Society is so active spreading our Vincentian Charism throughout the entire world.

Yes, members of the International Board spoke different languages, but their message was all the same – how we can serve Christ and transform the lives of those we are blessed to serve throughout the world. Many exciting international initiatives were discussed, and some will be led by our National President John Berry.

The week really got exciting with the opening of our National Office in Washington, D.C.. How blessed we were to have His Eminence Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States of America; our National Spiritual Advisor, Archbishop Andrew E. Bellisario, C.M.; National President John Berry; National Director of Advocacy and Policy, Ingrid Delgado, along with several other leaders, to cut the ribbon to officially open our new D.C. Office!

In my recent visits around the country, so many Vincentians have expressed their excitement to share our millions of encounters with our national leaders through our D.C. office. Encounters that allowed us to respond and see the true state of the less fortunate in our country.

We have always been a voice for the poor. We bring a special voice that no one else can offer. A voice of the priceless impact we make, the needs we see, and how everything our country does should embrace Christ’s call to “love one another…”

The week concluded with me being blessed to be with our Society’s Richmond Virginia Council. Over 100 Vincentians gathered for a day full of growing together spiritually  — an uplifting way to end my journey!

As Lent begins to wind down during Holy Week, we all have an opportunity to reflect on all the blessings in our lives. Think about all the “love one another” encounters we have had with those in need and the encounters we have had with our fellow Vincentians — all spiritual lifts that are blessings beyond measure.

I want to tell each one of you who live our Vincentian way of life, thank you for lifting me up and for being a blessing in my life.

There are 52 weeks in the year, but only one is called Holy Week. I pray that you and your family feel Christ’s love this coming week and throughout the entire Easter Season.

Sincerely yours in Christ’s Love,
Michael J. Acaldo
National CEO

 

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04-03-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
04-03-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Every night, over half a million people in America experience homelessness. Imagine walking past them knowing they are someone’s mother, father, or child. As Vincentians, we don’t have to imagine it, we live it.

And we cannot simply walk by — we are called to act. We understand our profound responsibility to act boldly in service to others. The words from 1 John, “Let us love, not with words but with deeds” are a reminder to all of us of the profound responsibility we share as Christians to live out our faith not just in what we say, but in what we do.

We are each familiar with the calls to action required to address the many needs in the world. And we celebrate the profound joy that comes from growing in holiness through our response to Christ’s call to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, give shelter to the homeless, welcome the stranger, minister to the sick, and visit the prisoner. The work of every Vincentian and volunteer is a vital lifeline for countless people in need — individuals and families often standing at the brink of despair, searching for a glimmer of hope.

Every year, we are faced with new challenges and opportunities. The world is constantly evolving. So how do we respond as we answer the call to serve? Amid the excitement of new beginnings and the anticipation of fresh starts, there are also apprehensions about the changes and challenges that may lie ahead. But amidst these feelings, one constant remains: the enduring power of hope. And so, we must be Bearers of Hope to the countless many who wonder if hope exists, who wonder if love exists, who wonder if anyone cares.

For hope is the belief that even in the face of adversity, goodness and redemption are possible. It is the conviction that we can overcome obstacles, heal divisions, and build a more just and compassionate world. Let us remember that hope is not naive optimism. Hope, in the Vincentian tradition, is rooted in the unwavering belief that God is present among the poor and the suffering. When we stand alongside them, we stand with Christ Himself.

Hope is the seed, but justice is the harvest.

If we do not act, hope remains just a dream. Justice must propel us to action, inspiring efforts that ripple outward, create lasting change, and making our world a better place. And so, we must also become fighters for Justice.

But we face a difficult challenge when frankly we sometimes must wonder if the world has lost its mind. A world that mirrors almost identically that of the 1830s in Paris, France, where Frédéric Ozanam wrote in 1836:

“The question that is agitating the world today is not of political forms, but it is a social one. It is a struggle between those who have nothing and those who have too much. It is a violent clash of opulence and poverty which is shaking the ground under our feet. Our duty as Christians is to intervene between these two camps, to ensure that some deprive themselves in order to fulfill a law, and others receive as a benefit; that some stop demanding and others stop refusing; that equality prevails as much as possible among people; that the voluntary community replaces taxes and forced borrowing, that love accomplishes what justice alone cannot do.”

So, as in 1836, we must become Advocates not only for Justice, but also for Love, transforming hope into action, and helping to heal our wounded world.

Yet the challenges of the world still face us and try to beat us down. A world where in January, thousands marched in our nation’s capital to advocate for the sanctity of life. Politicians came out, made speeches, had their pictures taken, then went right back up the marble stairs of the Capital and continued to plan how to cut billions of dollars in aid to babies who are born to the poor and the homeless. A world where it seems to be acceptable by some to cut 1.5 billion dollars in aid to USDA for food for the hungry, a billion dollars for vaccinations for the poor, and billions of dollars in aid to the homeless, the hungry, the sick, the unemployed and the elderly — all while spending trillions of dollars to plant a flag on Mars.

So, the world demands that we must become Advocates for Justice, transforming hope into action, and helping to heal our wounded world.

There are those who say we should not involve ourselves in advocacy or the great issues of the day. They say we should stay out of politics, be content with the charity we offer, and not try to change the things that cause or perpetuate poverty, dependency, and need.

To those people, I would say that if we do not use the knowledge and learning we uniquely gain through our personal encounters with the people we serve to help change the causes of poverty, dependence, and need then we are failing in our duty as Christians — and we are not being true to the foundations of our Society.

At SVdP, we serve those in need without regard for their demographics or creed, no matter what political party is in power. But the work of charity cannot, and must not, be neatly divided from the claims of justice. Make no mistake; while SVdP is not a political organization, our work and our faith demand that we advocate for those living in poverty.

Recall Frédéric Ozanam’s famous quote:

“Charity is the Samaritan who pours oil on the wounds of the traveler who has been attacked. It is justice’s role to prevent the attack.”

In 1848, Frédéric Ozanam was the Vice President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. On the occasion of the General Assembly that year, he wrote a letter that spoke to the vital importance of advocacy that the Society was obligated to undertake based on how we encountered the poor. Frédéric wrote:

“Yes, without doubt, it is too little to relieve the needy day by day. It is necessary to get to the root of the evil, and by wise reforms to diminish the causes of public misery. But we profess to believe that the science of welfare reform is learned less in books and parliamentary debates, than by climbing up the floors of the poor man’s house, by sitting at his bedside, by suffering the same cold as him, and by drawing out the secret of his desolate heart through the outpouring of a friendly conversation. When we have fulfilled this ministry, not for a few months, but for many years; when we have thus studied the poor at home, at school, at the hospital, not in one city only, but in many, in the countryside and in all the conditions where God has put it, then we begin to know the elements of this formidable problem of misery; then we have the right to propose serious measures, and instead of frightening society, we give it consolation and hope.”

Those words are as true today as when they were written on December 14, 1848. They could have been written last week and been applicable to our world in 2025. They are our heritage, they are our history, they are the calling we must continue to follow in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul today. Those who don’t understand that simply do not understand the wholeness of the Society.

St. Vincent de Paul himself lived in a world plagued by war and social upheaval. But his response was not just to provide bread and wood. He developed a network of priests, religious, and laypeople to not only provide food, shelter, and spiritual comfort to the wounded and displaced, but worked for the release of galley slaves and sought to protect the most vulnerable, living out Christ’s call to be a peacemaker. Vincent’s actions remind us that even in times of great darkness, the light of charity and justice must shine together. Vincent condemned greed and political ambitions that fueled wars and created poverty, but he did so to restore dignity and hope to those who suffered.

From a Vincentian perspective, we must see beyond the political rhetoric and recognize the human face of every victim of poverty. Each refugee, each orphan, each grieving mother is Christ crucified anew. To follow Vincent’s path means to reject the idea that poverty and suffering are inevitable. It means believing that justice is possible, but only when we confront self-interest and systemic injustice.

Our call to serve the poor, the refugees, the sick and all those who suffer injustice and oppression is also deeply rooted in Scripture. The Old Testament prophets often reminded Israel of their duty to care for the marginalized. We hear Isaiah proclaim:

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?”

That call tells us that our work must be holistic and transformative, addressing both immediate needs and systemic injustices.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus presents us with a clear and unambiguous description of how God will judge whether we lived out his commandment to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. Jesus tells us that our service to others is not just a charitable act — but a divine mandate.

Tomorrow, April 4, we will open our second National Office in Washington, DC. We will increase our efforts to advocate on behalf of those we serve and turn our focus more intensely towards the pressing issues of our time, particularly the scourge of poverty and homelessness that afflicts far too many of our fellow Americans. Last year, SVdP USA provided over $1.7 billion in services directly to over 5 million people in need across this country. That’s not just a number — that’s 5 million lives changed, 5 million families given a second chance, 5 million reminders that love is unstoppable! The unique direct relationship we have with our neighbors through our personal encounters gives us a perspective and view from the reality of the poor that we will be able to share with policy makers and like-minded nonprofits and other organizations. To fail to do so would be a disservice to those we serve and an abandonment of our obligation to our faith.

The stark and shocking reality of America and the world today is that millions of our brothers and sisters lack basic necessities — affordable housing, nutritious food, and quality healthcare. Families live on the streets, children go to bed hungry, and the cycle of poverty persists. Imagine a mother putting her children down to sleep on a cold night with no bed and no roof overhead. Or a child going to school hungry, unable to focus on learning. This is the reality we must work to change.

This is a crisis of conscience for our nation and every nation. It is a stark reminder that the pursuit of individual prosperity cannot come at the expense of the common good. We are called, as followers of Christ, to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. We are called to love our neighbors as ourselves.

What must we do next? How do we turn faith into action, hope into impact?

Primarily, we must open our eyes and our hearts to the suffering around us. We must acknowledge the realities of poverty and homelessness in our own communities. We must listen to the stories of those who are struggling, and we must seek to understand their experiences.

We cannot help if we do not understand. And we cannot understand if we do not listen.

Secondly, we must not only serve the poor, but stand beside them, speak for them, and challenge the systems that keep them in poverty. We must advocate for affordable housing, living wages, and access to quality education and healthcare. Our faith and our actions must walk hand in hand.

And finally, we must cultivate a spirit of solidarity and collective action. We must remember that we are all interconnected, and that the well-being of each of us is dependent on the well-being of all. We must work together to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

As we look ahead, I am inspired by what we can accomplish together. Imagine a community where every child has access to food, every family has a safe place to call home, and every individual feels valued. Together, we can make that vision a reality.

The task before us is daunting, but not insurmountable. We cannot solve the problems of poverty and homelessness overnight. But we can, each one of us, make a difference. We can be a force for good in the world. We can build a more just and compassionate society, a society where everyone can live a life of dignity and hope.

Our goal must be not just to alleviate suffering but to encounter the divine in our service to others. By looking to the future with hope and embracing new ways of doing things, we serve in ways that are both meaningful and transformative.

We stand poised to face new challenges with courage and creativity. As we move forward, let us do so with hearts full of love, minds open to innovation, and spirits grounded in the timeless values of our faith.

Together, we can make a difference that echoes through the ages, bringing hope and healing to a world in need.

My Brothers and Sisters, the call to serve is a divine mandate that transcends time and tradition. Let us be committed and courageous in our approach to answering that call.

Together, we are the light that dispels the darkness. We are the hands of Christ, the voice of the voiceless, the hope of the hopeless. And we will not stop until justice is done, until love reigns, until all are seen, heard, and embraced in dignity.

As we move forward with courage and faith; without fear or apprehension let us be inspired by the words of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam: “Let us not be discouraged; let us be better.”

In closing, I offer you the words of St. Vincent de Paul: “Go to the poor: you will find God.” This simple yet profound directive guides all of us in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in our mission to serve with love and compassion.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

(Note: Some of the content of this reflection was adapted from the March 27, 2025 FamVin Vincentian Reflection, “Hope and Peace in a World Torn by War”)

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03-20-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
03-20-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Every day, we Vincentians have personal encounters with the people we serve as we live out our vocation in this ministry that we all love and have committed ourselves to.

These encounters occur in many different places — food pantries, homes, thrift stores, dining halls, homeless shelters, parish offices. It really doesn’t matter where the encounter occurs, because the foundation of that encounter is the profound idea of “place of presence” — a sacred space where we encounter the divine through our engagement with those in need.

When we serve the poor, we do not merely extend a helping hand; we enter into a holy encounter where Christ Himself is present. Scripture reminds us time and again that God is intimately concerned with the suffering of the poor, and He calls us to be His hands and feet in the world. So, we must understand and recognize how the “place of presence” transforms our charitable works into moments of grace and divine encounter.

In Matthew 25:40, Jesus tells us, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

This powerful statement affirms that when we reach out to the hungry, the homeless, and the marginalized, we are stepping into a “place of presence” where Christ dwells. Our acts of charity are not just social work; they are encounters with Jesus in His most distressing disguise. When we serve with this perspective, our actions become an expression of our faith, a tangible manifestation of God’s love in the world.

So, as we engage in encounter during our Vincentian work, every dining hall, every shelter, every visit to a person’s home, every act of generosity becomes a sanctuary — a “place of presence” — where the love of God is revealed. When we respond to the cries of the poor, we are not simply fixing problems; we are becoming instruments of God’s justice and love, making His presence tangible in the world.

But what matters, the only thing that matters, is the quality of that encounter. What matters is that we understand the important differences between transactional encounters and Christ-centered, deeply spiritual encounters, particularly in the context of charitable work with those in need.

As we engage in acts of service, it is essential to reflect on the nature of our interactions and the motivations behind our actions. Are we merely fulfilling a duty, or are we entering into a transformative relationship that reflects the love of Christ?

Transactional encounters are often characterized by a mindset of exchange. In these interactions, we may approach charitable work with a focus on what we can give or what we can gain.

For instance, someone might volunteer at dining hall or a thrift store, viewing their actions as a checklist to fulfill their perceived moral obligations. While these acts are undoubtedly valuable, they can sometimes lack the depth and authenticity that come from a Christ-centered approach. In a transactional mindset, we may unconsciously view those we serve as mere recipients of our generosity, rather than as individuals with their own stories, struggles, and dignity.

Consider the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). In this story, we see a man who is beaten and left for dead by the side of the road. The priest and the Levite, both respected figures in society, pass by without offering help. They may have been preoccupied with their own duties, or perhaps they felt that helping the wounded man was not their responsibility. In contrast, the Samaritan, a figure often despised by the Jewish community, stops to help. He does not see the wounded man as a mere project or a checklist item; he sees a fellow human being in need. His compassion leads him to take action, to bind the man’s wounds, and to ensure he receives care.

This story is a wonderful example of the difference between a transactional encounter and a Christ-centered encounter. The priest and the Levite represent a transactional mindset, where their actions are dictated by societal expectations and personal convenience. The Samaritan, however, embodies the heart of Christ-centered service — he acts out of love, empathy, and a deep recognition of the inherent worth of the other.

When we engage in charitable work from a Christ-centered perspective, we are called to see those we serve as our brothers and sisters in Christ. This requires us to move beyond a mindset of obligation and to embrace a spirit of genuine compassion. It means taking the time to listen to their stories, to understand their struggles, and to walk alongside them in their journey. In doing so, we create a space for authentic connection, where both the giver and the receiver are transformed.

A Christ-centered encounter in charitable work also invites us to reflect on our own vulnerabilities.

When we serve others, we are reminded of our shared humanity. We all have needs, struggles, and moments of weakness. This recognition fosters humility and gratitude, allowing us to approach our work with a spirit of solidarity rather than superiority. We are not saviors; we are fellow travelers on the journey of life, called to support one another in love. This acknowledgement and understanding that we are not saviors, that we can’t help everyone, is the hardest thing we Vincentians often have to learn. It is too frequently the root cause of our burnout and frustration.

Charity is not only about material giving; it is about relational giving. In John 1:14, we read, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” God chose to be present with humanity, not from a distance, but by entering into our struggles and pains. In the same way, our charitable works should not be impersonal transactions; they should be incarnational, reflecting the love of Christ through genuine presence.

Pope Francis speaks often about the “culture of encounter,” urging us to go beyond superficial aid and truly know and love the poor. He reminds us that “the Gospel of the marginalized is where our credibility is found and revealed.” This means stepping into the spaces of suffering with humility and love, not merely as benefactors but as fellow human beings created in God’s image.

To be truly present means to listen deeply and to share in the joys and sorrows of those we serve. It is easy to drop off a box of food, promise to pay off a bill, or make a donation, but to sit with someone, to hear their story, to share a moment of laughter or tears — this is where transformation happens. And this can’t occur when we’re rushing to fill in the data on a form so we can process a check and get on to the next case. That’s transaction, not encounter.

Jesus did not merely provide for people’s needs; He walked with them, touched them, called them by name. When we follow His example, our presence becomes an extension of His love, and in that sacred space, both the giver and the receiver are changed.

So, as we are doing our Conference and Council work, trying to help as many people as we can (and sometimes maybe doing too much), we need to stop and ask ourselves a very hard question: Are we approaching our service as a transaction, or are we entering into a sacred encounter? Are we merely checking off a box, or are we allowing ourselves to be transformed by the relationships we build? Are we trying to do too much, given the people resources we have, and in doing so, are we turning a Christ-centered encounter into a transaction that diminishes both us and the person we serve?

I believe that the answer to that question, if we truly answer it honestly, is too often not going to be the one we want to hear.

Therefore, we must strive to cultivate a spirit of Christ-centered service in our Vincentian works. We must approach those in need with open hearts, ready to listen, to learn, and to love. We must remember that our acts of service are not just about what we can give, but about the relationships we build and the love we share. As we do so, we will not only bless those we serve but also experience the transformative power of Christ’s love in our own lives. Let us commit today, and every day, to serve with renewed hearts, seeing in every suffering face an opportunity to meet Christ.

May our charity be more than obligation. May it be a joyful response to God’s call to love, knowing that in the “place of presence,” we are not only serving but also being served by the grace of our Lord.

And that, my friends, is what being a Vincentian is truly all about, isn’t it?

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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