St. Vincent de Paul of Seattle | King County recently hosted its annual Vincentian Appreciation Luncheon to celebrate the dedication of each Vincentian and their contribution in Christian service to their neighbors in need. Over 250 Vincentians from different Conferences throughout Seattle and King County attended the event.
During the luncheon, nine Vincentians were recognized for their selfless commitment to the mission by receiving the “Good Samaritan Award.” They were recognized for the irreplaceable impact of their time and energy to the communities they served.
The event began with a beautiful invocation by the Council’s new Spiritual Advisor and active Vincentian, Sister Georgia Yianakulis, S.N.J.M.
During the event, Council President Adelfa Moreno gave a warm welcome address. She urged everyone to work together, be open to change, and welcome new ways of addressing challenges. She said, “We are stronger when we work together, and I am convinced, that our mission and spirituality, is good news for the Church!”
The Keynote Speaker was Robert Mackin, a longtime Vincentian. He mentioned the story of St. Vincent de Paul’s founding and encouraged all attendees to read the SVdP King County Council’s Impact Report. The report showcases much of the great work accomplished by Vincentian volunteer members and Council staff who work together amidst many of today’s challenges. He highlighted that Vincentians were able to help 33,362 neighbors through 50 plus neighborhood last year alone.
St. Vincent de Paul of Seattle King County’s Executive Director, Mirya Muñoz-Roach, in her response thanked all attendees, “I want to thank each of you for the partnership in service – ensuring that our mission is strong – capable of bringing hope to every neighborhood where our ministry is fully alive!”
The event provided a great opportunity for launching a new campaign, one that invites and welcomes new members to the Network of Friends! As part of this campaign to recruit and welcome new members, the values and virtues of Friendship and Joy were highlighted.
Mrs. Munoz-Roach recognized Mr. Jim Gauntt, former Council President for his example as a joy filled Vincentian and for his many years of service and leadership at SVdP of King County. In short, she encouraged all present to let “Joy be your most valuable recruitment tool!”
As part of the recruitment campaign was the official launching of the new short video “Listening is Loving” ( SVdP: Listening is Loving – YouTube ) which introduces the Vincentian Spirit of Friendship in action.
“Listening is Loving,” refers to how Vincentians serve neighbors in hope by showing love through thoughtful and reflective listening; and by doing so, we all grow spiritually!
