John Berry

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January is Poverty Awareness Month
January is Poverty Awareness Month 940 788 SVDP USA

January is Poverty Awareness Month

On the Eighth World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis wrote:

“If prayer does not translate into concrete action, it is in vain; 
indeed, ‘faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.’”

January is Poverty Awareness Month, a time for all people of faith to defend the life and dignity of those living in poverty. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul serves the poorest among us, not just during Poverty Awareness Month, but every day of the year. We put faith into action, rooted in love for those we serve as we are called to do.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, released on December 27, underscores the crisis of poverty and homelessness facing America. The report found more than 770,000 individuals were experiencing homelessness on a single night in 2024 — an increase of 18% over last year and an all-time high.

The crisis is growing, and we know that prayer alone is not enough. We are called to recognize those who struggle and to respond with compassion, love, and action. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul brings personalized help to people in crisis, as Vincentian volunteers in more than 4,000 communities across the country provide rental and utility assistance, food, medical care, educational support, and more. There is a transformative power in giving ourselves — our time, our attention, our presence — through these acts of love and service.

Our faith informs who and how we serve, and our service to those living in poverty strengthens our faith. This Poverty Awareness Month, our mission remains unchanged. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is, and forever will be, a network of friends, inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need.

– John Berry
National President of SVdP USA

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12-19-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
12-19-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Words. What are they to you and how do you use them? Are words just a way to communicate, or are they a way to express deep emotion, ideas, and thoughts that engage others?

I believe that we often forget how powerful words can be. But that power can be both good and bad. Words can be used to lift up, and to tear down. They can be used to inspire, and to belittle. They can be used to praise, and to curse. The power of words can be understood in one way by the realization that their use is specifically addressed three times in the Ten Commandments!

But where words hold the most power, the most value, and the most beauty is in the telling of stories. When we hear ‘stories’ we often think fiction, but stories are also the narratives of history. And it is in the telling of those stories that words teach us, ground us, and keep us connected to our roots and our history. It is through stories, even before the written word, that we evolved as a family of humanity.

The story of Christmas is a story of hope, love, and divine intervention. It is a story that speaks to the very core of our humanity, reminding us of our inherent dignity and worth. In the humble birth of Jesus, we see God’s unwavering love for humanity, a love that knows no bounds. And in that story, St. John writes the most beautiful 25 words ever written by man:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

This love is not an abstract concept. It is a love that calls us to action, that demands we act if we are true believers! It calls us to be instruments of God’s love in the world. As St. Vincent de Paul reminds us, “Charity is not merely a feeling of pity, but a lively sense of the sufferings of others which leads to prompt action.”

As I write this column the week before Christmas, when many of us will gather with loved ones to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I wanted to reflect on the profound meaning of Christmas in the context of our shared experiences and responsibilities as Brothers and Sisters in Christ, navigating a world that is both changing and challenging.

In our increasingly interconnected world, God calls us to be witnesses to his love, not just within our own communities, but also across the globe. As Blessed Frédéric Ozanam said, “Love is not merely a sentiment, but a force of nature, a power which moves the world.” This power of love can transform lives, heal wounds, and bring about lasting peace.

Our country and our world today are marked by division, conflict, and injustice. Yet, the message of Christmas is one of unity, reconciliation, and hope. Jesus came to break down the barriers that divide us, to bridge the gaps between rich and poor, strong, and weak, friend and foe. As we celebrate His birth, let this Christmas season renew our commitment to building a more just and compassionate world, in which every person is valued and respected.

Let us also reflect on the challenges we face as a society. The pandemic, although it seems a long time ago, exposed the deep and ongoing fragility of our world and the inequalities that persist today. Climate change threatens our planet and the well-being of future generations. Amid these challenges, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. However, we must not lose hope. As Christians, we believe in a God who is always present, even in the darkest of times.

The story of Christmas reminds us that God is with us. The name Emmanuel itself means “God With Us.” This is a truth that gives us the courage to face the challenges of our time with faith and determination. Let the example of Mary inspire us. She, who despite her youth and uncertainty, embraced God’s plan for her life. Let us also follow the example of Joseph, who was willing to put aside his own plans to care for Mary and the child Jesus.

As we gather with our families and loved ones this Christmas, let us not forget those who are alone or struggling. Let us reach out to them with compassion and care, offering them a listening ear and a helping hand. Let us also remember those who are suffering from poverty, hunger, and injustice. Let us pray for them and work to alleviate their suffering.

In the words of St. Paul, “Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at the proper time, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

While our work oftentimes seems overwhelming, and we question whether we are really making a difference, let us not grow weary in our efforts to build a more just and compassionate world. Let us continue to work for peace, justice, and love, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.

This Christmas, let us embrace the true meaning of the season — the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us celebrate His love, and let it inspire us to be beacons of hope and love in a world that desperately needs it. May the peace and joy of Christmas fill our hearts and homes, and may we carry this spirit of love and compassion throughout the year.

Debi and I wish you and your loved ones a Blessed and Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year!

John

John Berry
National President

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Podcast: National President John Berry’s vision for SVDP USA’s role in homelessness prevention
Podcast: National President John Berry’s vision for SVDP USA’s role in homelessness prevention 627 621 SVDP USA

National President John Berry’s vision for SVDP USA’s role in homelessness prevention

In the latest episode of the St. Vincent de Paul Louisville video podcast, our National President John Berry shares his unexpected journey into the SVDP USA organization and his deep passion for homelessness prevention.

Listen to Episode 32: With Arms Wide Open on the SVDP Louisville podcast now. 

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Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA climbs Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List
Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA climbs Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List 1920 1920 SVDP USA

Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA climbs Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA earned a second consecutive appearance on Forbes magazine’s annual list of Top 100 Charities in the United States, climbing to #59 this year from #75 last year.

SVdP USA received a high charitable commitment score of 89% from Forbes, meaning 89% of SVdP’s total expenses have gone where it matters most: directly to servicing people experiencing poverty. Forbes’ annual list serves as a trusted resource for helping readers distinguish which organizations are worthy of their donor dollars.

“This exciting accomplishment is not just for the organization — it’s also for every single donor, supporter, and neighbor we serve in His name,” said National President John Berry. “It’s a testament to the generosity and compassion our nearly 90,000 Vincentian volunteers have put forth to help their communities, the thousands of hours of providing person-to-person service to our neighbors, and the dedication to creating a more just world.”

SVdP USA has been at the forefront of providing personalized support to underserved communities for more than 150 years, and this legacy of service continues to grow with the tireless efforts of its Vincentian volunteers. Last year, the faith-based organization served more than 5 million people through a variety of its programs including food pantries, shelters, homelessness prevention initiatives such as rent and utility assistance, Home Visits, and more.

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A Homelessness Agenda for the Incoming Administration
A Homelessness Agenda for the Incoming Administration 1080 1080 SVDP USA

By John Berry, President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA

America is facing a homelessness crisis. In some respects, the issue is politicized (and thus vulnerable to partisan gridlock) — particularly regarding law and order, drug policies, and how best to address inequalities. But here’s the good news: This is a crisis we can solve together.

Recent polling suggests Americans fundamentally agree on both the nature of the crisis and solutions to it. And homelessness prevention policies show great promise in helping those among us who are living on the edge. During the election, there was a great deal of focus on the economy and those who continue to struggle to pay their bills each month. Now, in the spirit of fresh starts with a new administration, here is an agenda offering a unique approach that reflects consensus thinking among the public and can go far towards ending homelessness in America.

Broad Agreement 

The National Alliance to End Homelessness conducted a national public opinion poll through Morning Consult at the beginning of June. It found that Americans see eye-to-eye in key respects concerning the causes of homelessness and how it ought to be treated. Survey respondents agreed that:

  • Homelessness today is driven by economic factors as much as personal ones. In a marked shift from previous polls, about as many people attributed homelessness to economic factors like inflation and rising housing costs as to drug and alcohol abuse or mental illness.
  • The problem cannot be solved by increased law enforcement or government programs. Over 80% of respondents agreed that more policing will not solve the homelessness crisis; approximately half of those polled also doubted the effectiveness of governmental or federal efforts.
  • Homelessness is best addressed at the local level. Almost three quarters of those surveyed expressed confidence in the efforts of the homelessness services sector, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations to solve homelessness. And 68% of respondents were confident in local efforts — a number that drops to 62% and 55% at the state and national levels, respectively.

More than three-quarters of respondents also agreed with the statement, “homelessness is solvable, but it requires a level of leadership and investments that elected officials are hesitant to make.” The public broadly agrees, in short, that homelessness is a complex crisis demanding coordinated effort—and that the surest way forward is to empower initiatives and services at the local level.

Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure 

These findings align closely with something my organization, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, has encountered in working with unhoused populations around the country: The people most in need of assistance are often the most reluctant to seek out or accept government assistance. Just consider: How many times have they been marginalized, disqualified, or pushed into some position of humiliating dependence on their way to the street? Little wonder that people who have lost everything might carry skepticism about authorities or be disinclined to jump through bureaucratic hoops!

Instead, effective programs for helping the currently unhoused or the at-risk can only be built on relationships. The state is fundamentally ill-equipped for that sort of person-to-person encounter, which is why nonprofits and voluntary organizations must lead the way.

This is where homelessness prevention programs come in. Prevention programs are flexible and personalized, so they can help to cover rent and pay utilities, procure food or childcare, help with employment searches, and negotiate with landlords. According to a recent study conducted by Notre Dame’s Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO), persons who received an average of $2,000 in emergency financial assistance were “81 percent less likely to become homeless within six months of enrollment and 73 percent less likely within 12 months.” Support goes a long way in fighting homelessness, in other words, when it is individually tailored and personally delivered.

The Way Forward 

So, what is to be done? To start, we ask the Trump Administration to include homelessness prevention as part of its economic agenda to improve the lives of Americans who are often forgotten. This includes supporting initiatives at the state and local levels, and using the bully pulpit to show the benefits of working together to addressing the causes of homelessness before it starts.

This is not a plea to turn on a firehose of federal money. Homelessness prevention programs are highly cost effective, particularly in comparison to the status quo. (Just think: the state of California alone has spent $24 billion on homelessness in the past 5 years. That would have covered $2,000 emergency prevention grants to 12 million at-risk people, or about 20 times the number of people currently homeless nationwide!)

But the truth is, we do need many more resources to fight homelessness at the local level, and Americans agree: 71% of survey respondents said that local homelessness prevention lacks resources to make the needed impact. The federal government can help with funding, of course, but it can also encourage giving and facilitate local initiatives among the vast network of private, nonprofit and public organizations that help so many Americans each day. It’s time, in short, to rediscover the great American principle of federalism: the idea that problems can and should be solved at the local level.

John Berry

President, Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA

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12-05-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
12-05-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

My dear Vincentian Brothers and Sisters,

As we enter this sacred season of Advent and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, we are reminded that this is a time of joy, love, and celebration. Yet, for many among us, the holiday season can also be a time of profound difficulty and pain. It is a season that magnifies the joy of the lights and the gifts in the eyes of little children, but it also magnifies the burdens of poverty, loneliness, and sickness in those who suffer. As followers of Christ, we are called to recognize those who struggle and to respond with compassion, love, and action.

The holiday season, marked by abundance and generosity for many, often highlights the stark contrast of scarcity for the poor. The material demands of this time — gifts, decorations, festive meals — can become a source of stress and sorrow for those who can barely make ends meet and provide the essentials for their families. As Proverbs reminds us, “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him” (Proverbs 14:31). The poor are not forgotten by God, and neither should they be forgotten by us.

Jesus came into the world in poverty, born in a humble stable, laid in a manger because there was no room for His family in the inn. His very birth teaches us that God identifies with the lowly and the marginalized. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This is our mandate: to see Christ in the poor and to extend to them the love and care that we would offer to Christ Himself.

For those who are lonely, the holiday season can be particularly painful. This is a time when families gather, friends reconnect, and communities celebrate together. But for those who are isolated — whether through the loss of loved ones, estrangement, or circumstances beyond their control — this season can deepen their sense of separation and despair.

In Psalm 68:7, we read that “God sets the lonely in families; he leads out the prisoners with singing.” God’s heart is for the lonely, and as His hands and feet on earth, we are called to reach out to those who are alone. A visit, a phone call, an invitation to join in a meal or celebration can transform someone’s holiday experience. These small acts of kindness remind them — and us — that they are not forgotten, that they are loved.

For those who are sick, the holiday season can be a reminder of what they cannot do or participate in. While others celebrate, they may be confined to hospital rooms or homebound by illness. The physical and emotional toll of sickness can feel even heavier in a season meant to bring joy.

Jesus was a healer, both of bodies and souls. He was moved with compassion for the sick, as seen in Matthew 14:14: “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” While we may not have the power to heal as Jesus did, we do have the power to bring comfort. A visit, a prayer, or simply sitting with someone in their suffering are a profound expression of God’s love.

During this season, it is easy to focus solely on monetary giving. Financial contributions are essential and deeply appreciated. But as followers of Christ, we are called to go beyond writing a check or dropping off a bag of food. We are called to personal encounters with those in need.

In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus emphasizes that love for our neighbor is not abstract; it is active and personal. The Samaritan did not merely feel pity; he stopped, bandaged wounds, and provided care. He entered into the suffering of the injured man. This is the kind of love we are called to show, especially during this holy season.

There is a transformative power in giving ourselves — our time, our attention, our presence. In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds us of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” When we take the time to truly see and serve those in need, we are blessed in return. We find Christ in these encounters, and our hearts are enriched by the love we share.

Let us not forget that Jesus Himself modeled this for us. He dined with sinners, touched lepers, and spoke with outcasts. His ministry was one of personal connection and compassion. As we celebrate His birth, let us imitate His example.

How then can we respond to the needs of the poor, the lonely, and the sick this season? First, we can pray for God to open our eyes to those in need around us. Second, we can take action. Visit someone who is homebound. Volunteer at a shelter. Invite a neighbor to share in your holiday meal. Offer a word of encouragement to a struggling parent or a grieving friend. These acts of love are the true spirit of Christmas.

As we await the coming of Christ, let’s remember that He comes to us in the guise of the poor, the lonely, and the sick. When we serve them, we serve Him. May we be His light in this dark world, His hands to the weary, and His heart to the broken. And may we find joy, not just in receiving, but in giving ourselves to others. Not just in the holiday season, but always.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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11-21-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
11-21-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

“God knows the sufferings of his children because he is an attentive and caring father. As a father, he takes care of those who are most in need: the poor, the marginalized, the suffering and the forgotten. No one is excluded from his heart, for in his eyes, we are all poor and needy.”
– World Day of the Poor Message, 2024

On Sunday, November 17, Pope Francis declared the 2024 World Day of the Poor. It was the eighth declaration of a World Day of the Poor, something that began under the Pontificate of Francis. In his message for 2024, the Pope declared the World Day of the Poor with the theme “The prayer of the poor rises up to God.” The expression that gives the 2024 World Day of the Poor its theme is taken from the Book of Sirach (21:5), which Pope Francis says is not sufficiently known and deserves to be discovered for the richness of its themes.

Instead of reading my words this week, I think it is more important that you read Pope Francis’s words on the poor, our obligation to the poor, and our way forward. These are excerpts from his Homily on Sunday and his message leading up to World Day of the Poor. I encourage you to go the Vatican website and read more from this year and prior years World Day of the Poor messages.

In his message for this World Day of the Poor, the Holy Father reiterates that “the poor hold a privileged place in God’s heart” and invites everyone to learn to pray for the poor and to pray together with the poor, with humility and trust. Let’s listen to his words.

The World Day of the Poor has now become a fixture for every ecclesial community. It is a pastoral opportunity not to be underestimated, for it challenges every believer to listen to the prayer of the poor, becoming aware of their presence and needs. It is an opportune occasion to implement initiatives that concretely help the poor and to recognize and support the many volunteers who dedicate themselves passionately to those most in need. We must thank the Lord for the people who make themselves available to listen to and support the poorest among us. They are priests, consecrated persons, lay men and women who, by their testimony, give voice to God’s response to the prayer of those who turn to him. This silence, therefore, is broken every time a person in need is welcomed and embraced. The poor still have much to teach us because in a culture that has placed wealth at the forefront and often sacrifices the dignity of people on the altar of material goods, they swim against the tide, highlighting that what is essential for life is something else entirely.

Prayer, then, is verified by authentic charity that manifests itself as encounter and proximity. If prayer does not translate into concrete action, it is in vain; indeed, “faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead” (Jas 2:17). However, charity without prayer risks becoming philanthropy that soon exhausts itself. “Without daily prayer lived with fidelity, our acts are empty, they lose their profound soul and are reduced to being mere activism” (BENEDICT XVI, Catechesis, April 25, 2012). We must avoid this temptation and always be vigilant with the strength and perseverance that comes from the Holy Spirit, who is the giver of life.

As we journey towards the Holy Year, I urge everyone to become pilgrims of hope, setting tangible goals for a better future. Let us not forget to keep “the little details of love” (Gaudete et Exultate, 145): stopping, drawing near, giving a little attention, a smile, a caress, a word of comfort. These gestures are not automatic; they require a daily commitment and are often hidden and silent, but strengthened by prayer. In this time, when the song of hope seems to give way to the clamor of arms, to the cry of many innocent wounded, and the silence of the countless victims of wars, we turn to God with our plea for peace. We stretch out our hands to receive peace as a precious gift for we are “poor” in this regard, while at the same time committing ourselves to weave it back into daily life.

 We are called in every circumstance to be friends of the poor, following in the footsteps of Jesus who always began by showing solidarity when dealing with the least among us.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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11-07-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
11-07-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

The other day, I was speaking to one of our Vincentians and she asked me, “Hey, what ever happened to VisionSVdP?” I must say I was a little taken aback by the question, and I asked her why she was asking. I told her that VisionSVdP was going full speed ahead and that we were in the final two months of Phase I, with many local Conferences and Councils holding listening sessions (as a matter of fact, my own Conference just held our listening session at the end of October). She said, “OK, but you haven’t been saying much about it lately. Maybe it’s time for an update?” Great idea! So, here we are.

Over the last year, you have heard and read about VisionSVdP, our “family conversation” that we are using to answer the call in our Rule to ‘Adapt to a Changing World.’ I first spoke about this after my Installation as National President in St. Louis in October 2023, and I have written about it often in the e-Gazette Servant Leader column and other places. We officially kicked off VisionSVdP at the 2024 Midyear Meeting, and since that time, we have held literally hundreds of listening sessions at Regional meetings, Council meetings, Conference meetings, and the National Assembly in Phoenix.

In case you are new to the Society, or you’ve been hiding under a rock for the last year (only kidding), you might be asking, “What is this VisionSVdP he is talking about?” Let me start by telling you what it is NOT: It’s not a program, it’s not a strategic planning process, it’s not a reorganization, it’s not a fundraising campaign, it’s not a make-work effort for already burdened Vincentians trying to serve people in need.

Well then, WHAT IS IT? you ask. Well, it’s a conversation. A Synodal (from the Greek for “journeying together”) conversation about the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. What’s good about it? What’s not so good about it? What are we doing right? What might we be doing better? What are we doing that we don’t need to be doing? What aren’t we doing that we should be doing? What’s enriching your spiritual life as a Vincentian? What’s stressing your spiritual life as a Vincentian? Why are we getting older and greyer, even though we are trying to bring young people into our membership? Why can’t we move the needle on increasing diversity despite years of trying? Why are we still using pen and paper to complete casework forms when our grandkids are using tablets to do their homework in first grade?

Get it? A conversation guided by, blessed by, and driven by God through the Holy Spirit.

The next question on your mind is probably, “Why are we doing this?”

There are a lot of reasons! As I mentioned above, The Rule, written in 1836, call us to periodically ‘Adapt to a Changing World.’ In Part I, 1.6 The Rule says: “Faithful to the spirit of its founders, the Society constantly strives for renewal, adapting to changing world conditions. It seeks to be 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.”

The last few decades have brought changing conditions in the U.S. and around the world that demand we look at how we must adapt and renew. Those changes were accelerated and exacerbated by the pandemic and the economic challenges faced here and abroad. We must look at the Society in the light of the realities of today and tomorrow, and we must change where change is called for.

So, for the last eight months we have been talking, listening, and through it all, respecting every person’s views. That is Phase I, which will end December 31. If your Conference or Council has NOT held a Listening Session yet — you need to. Because EVERY VOICE MATTERS and we want to hear from you!

If you need help getting started, contact Jill Pioter at the National Council and she’ll get you everything you need.

Phase II begins next year. It’s the hardest and most complicated part. Because that’s when we start going through the thousands of comments we’ve received, then work on planning how we move forward. We are going to talk for a LONG TIME. We are going to talk about that planning for another year at least at every level in the Society — because EVERY VOICE MATTERS.

And then we’re going to assimilate it and put together an Action Plan.

We’re gonna talk together! A lot!

Because EVERY VOICE MATTERS!

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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10-17-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
10-17-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Today, the world seems to be constantly shifting beneath our feet. The political turmoil surrounding the 2024 presidential election, the ongoing wars and conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, the destruction wrought by Mother Nature by hurricanes and fires, and the relentless barrage of distressing news can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. In these challenging times, it is our faith that serves as an anchor, grounding us and providing the strength we need to navigate through the stormy seas of life.

The Bible tells us in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage reminds us that in the midst of chaos, we are called to turn to God in prayer, to lay our burdens at His feet, and to trust in His divine plan. It is through this act of faith that we can find peace, even when the world around us is in turmoil.

Faith is not just a passive belief; it is an active trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty. It is the assurance that, no matter how dire the circumstances, God is with us, guiding us, and working all things for our good. This assurance allows us to face the uncertainties of life with courage and hope. It is this faith that empowers us to rise above our fears and to be a light in the darkness for others.

One of the most profound ways we can live out our faith is through service to others. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a shining example of how acts of service can transform lives and bring hope to those in need. Our organization, inspired by the life and works of St. Vincent de Paul, is dedicated to serving the poor and marginalized, providing not only material assistance but also compassion and love. We know that when we serve others, we are serving Christ Himself. This service not only meets the physical needs of those we help, but also affirms their dignity and worth as children of God.

Service to others has a remarkable way of shifting our focus from our own worries and anxieties to the needs of those around us. It reminds us that we are part of a larger community, interconnected and interdependent. When we reach out to help someone else, we are reminded of the power of human connection and the importance of solidarity. This sense of community can be a source of great comfort and strength, especially in times of stress and uncertainty.

Moreover, serving others can be a powerful antidote to the feelings of helplessness and despair that often accompany difficult times. When we take action to make a positive difference in someone else’s life, we are reminded that we have the power to create change, no matter how small. This can be incredibly empowering and can help to alleviate the stress and anxiety that come from feeling powerless in the face of global events.

The work of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and similar organizations is a testament to the transformative power of service. By providing food, clothing, shelter, and support to those in need, we are not only meeting immediate needs but also offering hope and encouragement. We are living out the Gospel message of love and compassion, and in doing so, we are helping to build a more just and compassionate world.

As we navigate these challenging times, let us remember the words of Jesus in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Our faith in Christ gives us the strength to face the troubles of this world with confidence and hope. It reminds us that, no matter how dark the night, the dawn will come, and God’s light will shine through.

Let us also remember that we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world. Through acts of service, we can bring His love and light to those who are struggling. Whether it is through our work with St. Vincent de Paul, reaching out to a neighbor in need, or simply offering a kind word to someone who is hurting, we can make a difference.

We need to hold fast to our faith in these turbulent times. Let us turn to God in prayer, trusting in His goodness and sovereignty. And let us commit ourselves to serving others, knowing that in doing so, we are serving Christ Himself. May our faith and our acts of service bring us peace and hope, and may they be a beacon of light to those around us.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

 

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10-03-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
10-03-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Last Friday, September 27, we celebrated the Feast Day of St. Vincent de Paul. On that day, we, along with the whole Catholic Church, honored the life and legacy of a man whose name has become synonymous with charity and service to the poor. St. Vincent de Paul dedicated his life to helping the marginalized.

Most of us know about St. Vincent de Paul. He was born on April 24, 1581, in Pouy, France. From humble beginnings, he pursued an education and was ordained as a priest in 1600. Initially, Vincent sought a comfortable ecclesiastical position, but his life took a transformative turn when he encountered the profound poverty and suffering of the people around him. This experience ignited a deep sense of compassion and a calling to serve the poor.

St. Vincent de Paul’s commitment to charity led him to establish several organizations that continue to impact the world today. In 1625, he founded the Congregation of the Mission, also known as the Vincentians, a society of priests dedicated to preaching to and serving the poor. Later, in collaboration with St. Louise de Marillac, he co-founded the Daughters of Charity, a community of women devoted to caring for the sick and impoverished.

St. Vincent de Paul’s legacy is marked by his innovative approach to charity. He believed in addressing both the immediate needs and the systemic causes of poverty. His initiatives included establishing hospitals, orphanages, and schools, as well as organizing missions to rural areas. Vincent’s work extended beyond France, influencing charitable practices across Europe and inspiring countless individuals to dedicate their lives to service.

The Feast Day of St. Vincent de Paul is not only a celebration of his humanitarian efforts, but also a reflection on the spiritual dimensions of charity. Vincent’s life exemplifies the Christian virtues of humility, compassion, and selflessness. He taught that true charity involves seeing Christ in the faces of the poor and serving them with love and respect. This spiritual perspective continues to inspire the faithful to engage in acts of kindness and social justice.

Today, we, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, carry forward Vincent’s mission. SVdP operates in over 150 countries, providing assistance to millions of people in need. The Society’s work includes food programs, housing assistance, disaster relief, and advocacy for social justice. The Feast Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for compassion and action in addressing the challenges of poverty and inequality.

St. Vincent de Paul left behind a legacy of profound wisdom and compassion that continues to inspire and guide the Society of St. Vincent de Paul today. Some of his well-known quotes encapsulate principles that are as relevant now as they were during his lifetime, providing a moral and spiritual compass for those dedicated to serving the poor and marginalized.

“Charity is the cement which binds Communities to God and persons to one another.”

This quote underscores the foundational role of charity in building strong, compassionate communities. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul embodies this principle through our extensive network of volunteers, who provide direct assistance to those in need. By offering food, clothing, shelter, and emotional support, we foster a sense of community and solidarity, binding people together in mutual support and love.

“We should assist the poor in every way and do it both by ourselves and by enlisting the help of others.”

St. Vincent’s call to action is reflected in the collaborative efforts of our work. The Society not only engages our members in charitable activities but also partners with other organizations, businesses, and government agencies to amplify our impact. This collaborative approach ensures that resources are maximized and that a broader range of services can be provided to those in need, from emergency relief to long-term support programs.

“Go to the poor: You will find God.”

This profound statement highlights the spiritual dimension of serving the poor. For Vincentians, charity is not just a social duty, but a spiritual practice. By seeing Christ in the faces of those we serve, we are reminded of the sacredness of our mission. This perspective encourages us to approach our work with humility, respect, and a deep sense of purpose, transforming acts of charity into encounters with the divine.

“The poor have much to teach you. You have much to learn from them.”

St. Vincent de Paul believed that serving the poor was a reciprocal relationship, where both the giver and the receiver are enriched. This philosophy is integral to our approach, which emphasizes listening to and learning from those we serve. By understanding the unique challenges and strengths of individuals and communities, we can provide more effective and empathetic support, fostering empowerment and resilience.

“Let us love God, but let it be with the strength of our arms and the sweat of our brow.”

This quote encapsulates the Vincentian commitment to practical, hands-on service. Vincentians are known for our tireless dedication, often going above and beyond to meet the needs of those we serve. Whether it’s through Home Visits, running thrift stores, or any of our many special works, Vincentians put our faith into action, demonstrating love through tangible deeds.

In today’s world, the principles articulated by St. Vincent de Paul are more relevant than ever. We continue to adapt to contemporary challenges, such as homelessness, food insecurity, and social isolation, while staying true to our Vincentian values.
St. Vincent de Paul’s timeless wisdom provides a guiding light for us in the modern age. His quotes remind us that charity is not just about giving but about building relationships, learning from one another, and finding God in the service of others. As we continue our mission, the words of St. Vincent de Paul inspire and challenge us to create a more just and compassionate world.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
SVdP National President

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