Servant Leader

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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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03-13-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
03-13-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Our Vincentian Charism

I just attended my first Midyear Business Meeting as your National CEO, and it was fantastic! It was wonderful to reunite with Vincentians that I have known for decades, and to meet others for the first time.

The Charism of our Society was on full display. As we all know, what a gift it is from the Holy Spirit to be a part of our Vincentian call to seek and find the forgotten. When we fulfill our call, we encounter Jesus in everyone we are blessed to serve.

Many Vincentians told me that they felt this was the best Midyear Meeting they have ever attended. There were a lot of reasons it was a great meeting.

First, when we gather, we fulfill our Vincentian call to grow spiritually and in friendship. That cannot happen at a virtual Zoom meeting.

Second, the focus of this year’s meeting was on Governance, Finance, and the Standards of Excellence, critical parts of good stewardship and essential for achieving Blessed Frédéric’s vision of a commitment to accountability within our Society. Special thanks to John Hallissy and Ed McCarthy for their excellent presentations on this subject matter.

Third, we were able to discuss and celebrate all our recent accomplishments. Our Regional Vice Presidents are working together to position our Councils, Conferences, and Special Works for success in keeping hope alive for the most vulnerable throughout our great country.

National President John Berry gave a State of the Society comprehensive report on the activities of our National Council. He provided an overview of how well Vision SVdP is shaping up, and how the information provided by our membership will lay out the roadmap for our future.

Sean Meyers gave the final report and a detailed plan from our Technology Task Force. His report highlighted our vision of how the use of technology will be key to the bright future of our Society.

It was also reported that our Society will officially open our Washington D.C. Office on April 4. As one of the largest lay Catholic groups in the country, this new office will give us the opportunity to share the stories of those we are blessed to serve with our leaders, but most importantly, with the whole country.

Earlier in this article, I mentioned the encounters we are blessed to have with those we serve. These encounters are priceless, and that is why it is so important for us to be that voice for the poor. We need to share their stories so together we can unite as a country to end some of the things we see on our encounters with those most in need.

How heartbreaking it is to visit a home with children who cannot even go to bed hungry because they do not even have a bed to sleep on.

How important are our encounters at SVdP Special Works, where people who are working come into our pharmacies because they cannot afford their life-sustaining medications.

We provide food, beds, prescription medicines, and so much more! Where would the most vulnerable be in our country or world without the Society?

Our Vincentian Charism is such a special gift — and so is the wisdom we share in our Vincentian friendship.

Several decades ago, a Vincentian leader in my hometown shared some wisdom with me that I cherish to this day. He was a two-time Council President in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, serving six years in the 1970s and six years in the 1990s.

Marvin Vincent Ourso was a Vincentian for almost 70 years before he went to his rest in heaven.

Many years ago, Marvin and I were having a conversation about how people can grow together with different views and thoughts on a variety of issues.

At the time, Marvin was in his early 70s, and I was in my late 20s. I was trying to understand the complex nature of relationships.

Marvin said, “As Vincentians, we are all trying to grow closer to Jesus. We are trying to follow His example.” He said, “Michael, you know that Jesus was both liberal and conservative (not in a political sense). He knows when to be liberal and when to be conservative. He is divine and we are not, but we need to do our best to look at everything through the lens that Jesus would want us to.”

Marvin went on to say, “For us brother and sister Vincentians, the most important thing we have is Christ and our friendship. Nothing can divide us if we grow together spiritually.”

These words of wisdom are even more important to me today than when Marvin shared them with me over 30 years ago.

That is what I saw on display at our Midyear Meeting: Vincentians embracing one another, sharing wisdom, and growing in spiritual friendship.

It is a blessing for me to meet and get to know each of you. You are God’s gift to our Society and all those we are blessed to serve!

Best wishes in Christ,
Michael J. Acaldo
National CEO

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03-27-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
03-27-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Are You a Virtuous Vincentian?

The classic definition of “virtue” is “a good quality or habit that reflects high moral standards.” We all know the three theological virtues — faith, hope, and love — and some may even remember the cardinal virtues: prudence, temperance, justice, and fortitude.

But how many of us know and try to cultivate the five Vincentian virtues? You heard about them at Ozanam Orientation, and they appear in the Rule, but unless they’re a part of your daily life and vocation, they are easy to forget.

So, let’s review:

The first is SIMPLICITY. In the context of our vocation, this means being plain-spoken and transparent, eschewing ostentation and vainglory, not cultivating secret grievances or hidden agendas. Simplicity means that what you see is what you get.

The second is HUMILITY, for us perhaps the greatest of virtues. Humility doesn’t mean self-abnegation or detraction. Far from it. Humility means honestly admitting our strengths and our weaknesses and then relying on God’s grace to make up the difference. As T.S. Eliot said, “The only wisdom we can hope to acquire is the wisdom of humility.”

GENTLENESS is the third Vincentian virtue. Gentleness involves smoothing the hard edges of our personalities for the sake of others. It means treating everyone we encounter — including those we serve and those we serve with — respectfully and with grace and compassion.

The fourth virtue is SELFLESSNESS, which means placing the well-being of others, especially the poor, ahead of our own. As the Rule says, selflessness means, “Dying to our ego with a life of self-sacrifice; members share their time, their possessions, their talents and themselves in a spirit of generosity.” (2.5.1)

Finally, the fifth Vincentian virtue is ZEAL. For us, zeal is a passion for our work and the cause of those we serve. It is a heartfelt longing to see “the full flourishing and eternal happiness of every person.” (Rule 2.5.1)

Now, the fact is that there are more than 80,000 Vincentians in the United States. We each have our own personalities and experiences. We’re all at different points in our personal pathways of Christian discipleship. The result is that not all of us excel at all the virtues all the time. That’s to be expected — and it’s perfectly okay, so long as we keep at it!

For instance, the Vincentian I know best (that would be me), is full of zeal but could use a lot more humility. He’s relatively selfless but needs to work harder on gentleness. It’s okay. The Vincentian vocation is a lifelong school, and as with any skill or quality worth possessing, the virtues take time and practice to acquire.

But be warned: If we embrace and fully live the five Vincentian virtues, we will inevitably find ourselves more and more estranged from the world in which we live, and even from friends and family. We live in a time and culture that hates humility, that mocks gentleness, that equates simplicity with stupidity, that laughs at selflessness, that only honors zeal in pursuit of self-interest. The nature of our charism as Vincentians means that if we do this work and live these virtues, we will inevitably be countercultural, a sign of contradiction, hated and despised by some, laughed at by others.

That’s okay … in fact, it’s more than just okay. It is what we should expect. It’s even what we should hope and pray for!

After all, our Lord said, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11, 12)

A parish in my town has a wayside pulpit on a busy intersection. Recently, it featured this question: “If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?” As Vincentians and Catholics that should be a question that haunts us. It’s a question of integrity, and it really boils down to this: have we so blended what we claim to believe with how we live that there could be no judgment but “guilty?” The practice of simplicity, humility, gentleness, selflessness, and zeal in this vocation of charity all but guarantees it. And thank God for that.

Yours in Christ,
Mark Gordon
National Vice President, Northeast Region

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02-27-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
02-27-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

I still remember my mother’s favorite prayer, “God grant me patience…. And grant it to me right now!”

My mom needed to have a lot of patience in her life. My father had passed away at the age of 33 from an aggressive form of lung cancer, leaving my 29-year-old mother with four children under the age of 7. I would like to say that us children were models of good behavior…but that was not always the case. We were normal, rambunctious children with typical sibling rivalries and behaviors. Our mother showed us immense love, grace, and patience, even as she was struggling with raising a family without her husband.

My mother loved us, raised us with expectations for leading a good life and grounded us in our Catholic faith. My mother was the role model for my faith journey. I have memories as a child of seeing her kneel at her bedside saying her nighttime prayers after a long day of chasing her children. Although things were difficult, she relied on her faith to guide her through the ups and downs of her life. She was patient and let God’s plan for her life unfold over time.

I would like to say that I inherited my mother’s virtue of patience — but regrettably, I did not. Too often I have found myself to be impatient about delays, mix-ups, long lines, or computer glitches. I show little patience for people who are late to appointments, tardy in getting assignments done, or meeting obligations either large or small.

We live in a technologically advanced society where we travel across the country in hours, talk directly to people around the globe in seconds, and have packages arrive at our doorstep from around the world within a day or two from ordering them online. We are irritated at the slightest delay in traffic. We are short on patience and short on grace.

In the last few years, with the help of prayers, spiritual reflection, and the guidance and example of my fellow Vincentians, I have started to work on my sin of impatience, albeit slowly. Being a Vincentian has taught me that God reveals His plan on His time and at His pace. We cannot and do not change the world. Only God possesses that Power of Change. It is up to us to be patient and listen to God through our prayers and our interactions with our neighbors in need. As Vincentians, we can get overwhelmed by the sheer number of neighbors in need or by the finite limit of our resources. We must be patient and know that God is always present, and His plan is unfolding as He wills.

As I look back at the difficult times throughout my life, I realize that God always answered my prayers — not on my timeline or my wants, but on His timeline and what I truly needed. In all cases, God’s plan and timing was exactly what I needed in my life.

Our Vincentian vocation calls us to a deeper relationship with God through our service to our neighbors. We realize that when we do His work as He commanded us, we supply the effort — but it is God who supplies the result. As we go about our mission as Vincentians, let us show patience to the people we serve, patience with the slow process of change, patience to our fellow Vincentians and finally, patience to ourselves. After all, we all are works in progress. God is not finished with working miracles in our lives or in the world!

Yours in Christ,
Chuck Korte
National Vice President, Midwest Region

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02-20-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
02-20-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

VisionSVdP — What’s Next?

You might be wondering what happened to VisionSVdP. There was a lot of activity and hoopla around it for much of 2024, but recently, things have been pretty quiet, right? Well, I’m going to update you where we are, where we’re going, and make you a promise — it’s not going to be quiet for very long.

Let me start by saying that Phase I of VisionSVdP was a grand slam home run success! We had an incredible outpouring of thoughts and ideas and comments from across the country. From small Conferences to large Councils, people participated and were excited to share their thoughts about the Society. It was great to see.

And from that, we received a lot of comments. I mean a lot of comments! So a good deal of time has been spent entering them into our database at the National Office. Comments are being entered as written, with no editing. Once that is completed later this month, the data gurus will start to “do that voodoo that they do” so well. (Bonus points if you can name the movie that line came from!) They will sort, categorize, rank order, and do all kinds of other things with the data.

At the Midyear Meeting the first week in March, I will present an overview of what we heard. You will get that overview both by email and in Frédéric’s Five. You will also receive a link so you can look at every single comment made — unfiltered, unedited.

Then the fun starts. We’re going to look at everything and see what jumps out at us. What did a lot of people comment about? What did they think we really needed to fix, to add, to subtract, to change, to enhance? What did the thousands of Vincentian voices of SVdP USA have to say?

And then we’ll choose a manageable number of themes and get down to work. Or I should say…you will get down to work. Because you are going to tell us what we need to do.

We’ll identify the areas — for example, let’s say there are seven of them. Then we’ll create working groups — all over. At Conferences, at Councils, at Special Works…wherever it makes sense, and wherever a group of Vincentians wants to work on the subject. And you can volunteer for the group that is tackling the subject for which you have the greatest passion or interest. You can even join two if you want! (But the cutoff is two working groups per person.)

The working groups will meet as often as they feel is necessary, and then in late Fall, we will ask ALL Councils to hold a one- or two-day gathering to bring all these working groups together and develop a set of Recommendations for Action.

At that time, Councils will also elect two representatives (who CANNOT be the Council President) to represent the Council at a National Congress to be held in January 2026.

At that National Congress, the elected representatives will spend three days developing a National VisionSVdP Action Plan, which will provide us with specific plans for implementing what has come out of VisionSVdP.

There will be a lot more detail as we get further along, but that’s how it will work. It’s going to be a blast!

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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02-13-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
02-13-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Focusing on Christ

A couple of months ago, I celebrated my 35th anniversary of being a part of our Vincentian family. Thirty-five years of blessings and an opportunity to learn and grow from the wisdom of Vincentians. I also just celebrated my five-month anniversary as your National CEO, and wow, have I learned a lot!

As Vincentians, we are called to be like a sponge, absorbing knowledge and spiritual growth from our brother and sister Vincentians. I began my Vincentian journey as a 22-year-old. I did not know much then — and I quickly learned, the more wisdom that was shared with me, the more I realized that I had to learn.

Older and wiser Vincentians taught me never to go to a gathering or meeting with my mind already made up on a particular matter but instead, arrive at the meeting with the desire to listen and discern the best solution.

As many of you know, Sam Pettway, founder of Boardwalk Consulting, is the recruiter who led the recent nationwide SVdP CEO search. After Sam reached out and asked me if I had any interest in the role, he asked me to describe myself. I told Sam that I consider myself a student of life, with the desire to keep on learning and growing. For me, the most attractive thing about our Society is our mission that calls us to grow together spiritually and in friendship so that we can serve Christ — our neighbor in need.

We have all heard the saying that if you have seen one St. Vincent de Paul Conference or Council, you have only seen one. We have such a strong and diverse way of focusing on serving Christ. This is what makes us special.

In the first Beatitude, when Christ says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” He is talking to us! He is asking each of us to recognize our spiritual poverty and our need to grow closer to Him.

St. Vincent de Paul, St. Louise de Marillac, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and Blessed Rosalie Rendu serve as examples for us all to emulate. They lived in times far more difficult than what we face today. They saw challenges as opportunities to live their faith and keep their focus on Christ.

We should not put our faith into anyone or anything except Christ — we can count on Him, and He is counting on us! In a world where many are searching for Jesus, we have found Him in those we visit, comfort, and provide hope to in the most challenging times. How blessed we are to know that we are on a constant journey to serve Christ and grow closer to Him. There are so many in the world who don’t even know they should search and find Christ. We must keep them in our prayers.

The Lenten Season is just a few weeks away, and it will be a wonderful time to reflect on our virtues of Simplicity, Humility, Gentleness, Selflessness, and Zeal. We are called to be that bright light of Christ in the world, and to share the gift of the Society with others so they can live their faith in a Vincentian Way!

Thank you all for sharing the priceless gift of yourself with the Society and those we are blessed to serve!

Best wishes in Christ,
Michael J. Acaldo
National CEO

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02-06-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
02-06-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

Very unsettling news that became public this week has sent a shockwave through the Catholic charitable community. As it impacts one the largest and most important Catholic international aid organizations, it demands reflection and a realization of how policy that might appear to address one issue can have devastating impact on innocents.

Catholic Relief Services, CRS, is bracing for massive cuts — as much as 50% this year — because of draconian reductions in U.S. foreign assistance ordered by the new administration.

CRS is the top recipient of funds for foreign aid to support people in need around the world, aid which the administration has targeted with a spending freeze. Layoffs have already begun, as CRS has been forced to begin shutting down programs, as close to half of the organization’s $1.5 billion budget has been slashed. The cuts would amount to one of the biggest blows ever to CRS, founded in 1943 by Catholic bishops in the United States to serve World War II survivors in Europe. CRS reaches more than 200 million people in 121 countries on five continents.

This is a tragic outcome for people around the world who rely on CRS and others who believe in the call of Christ to ‘love your neighbor’ for survival. It is important that we pray for our sisters and brothers at CRS who are doing God’s work as they go through this turmoil, that we pray for the innocents who will suffer because of these actions, and for an understanding by policymakers of the universal impact of their actions and a consideration of all impacted by those actions before they are taken.

This is not about politics. Politicians get elected and they have a right to enact the policies that they ran on and were elected on. No, this is about morality and doing what is right. This is about not cutting off your head because you have a cold. This is about not blowing up your house because your sink leaks. This is about thinking about the impact of your actions before you take them.

There is no excuse for making the poor, the hungry, the homeless, and the sick suffer while you ‘study’ the massive expenditures of the federal government. If there is waste, identify where, and cut it. You’ll be applauded. Don’t shut down vital lifesaving aid to millions while you look — people die that way. Look first, act second.

This is about the fact that we, as Christians, believe that caring for the poor, the homeless, the sick, and the elderly is not just a moral duty. It’s a divine mandate from God and Jesus. This obligation is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible and the example set by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry.

The Bible is replete with verses that emphasize the importance of helping those in need. In the Old Testament, God commands His people to care for the less fortunate. For instance, in Deuteronomy 15:11, it is written, “For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore, I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.'” This verse highlights the perpetual presence of poverty and the continuous need for generosity and compassion.

The teachings of Jesus in the New Testament further reinforce this obligation. Jesus’ ministry was marked by His compassion for the marginalized and the suffering. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus speaks about the final judgment and identifies Himself with the needy. We know that this passage underscores the idea that serving the needy is equivalent to serving Christ Himself.

Moreover, the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) illustrates the call to love and care for others, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Samaritan’s actions demonstrate that true neighborly love transcends social and ethnic boundaries and is characterized by mercy and compassion.

The early Christian community also exemplified this mandate. In Acts 2:44-45, it is recorded that “all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” This communal sharing and support for the needy were foundational to the early Church’s identity and mission.

So too do Governments have a fundamental obligation to support those in need during policy making. This responsibility is rooted in the principles of life, liberty, justice, and the common good. Effective governance requires that policies are designed to uplift the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that everyone has access to basic necessities and opportunities for a better life.

Historically, U.S. governmental entities (both Republican and Democratic) have reached out to Catholic organizations in order to deliver social services more effectively and efficiently. America has a profound moral obligation to support those in need, both domestically and globally. This responsibility stems from the nation’s values of justice, compassion, and leadership. As a global leader, the United States has the capacity and resources to make a significant impact on alleviating suffering worldwide.

Moreover, America’s history of humanitarian aid reflects its commitment to global welfare. The Marshall Plan, for instance, helped rebuild Europe after World War II, demonstrating the nation’s dedication to fostering stability and prosperity beyond its borders. By supporting those in need globally, America not only fulfills its moral obligations but also promotes peace, stability, and goodwill. This approach fosters international cooperation and strengthens global partnerships, ultimately contributing to a more just and peaceful world.

In summary, Christians are called to care for the poor, the homeless, the sick, and the elderly as a reflection of God’s love and compassion. This mandate is not merely a suggestion, but a fundamental aspect of Christian discipleship, rooted in the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus Christ. By serving those in need, Christians fulfill their divine obligation and embody the love of Christ in the world.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
SVdP National President

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01-23-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
01-23-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

We’re More Than You Think

Do you recall why you joined the Society of St. Vincent de Paul? Most likely, you wanted to do good works as a “volunteer” — in the food pantry, thrift store, shelter, Home Visit, etc. — and be of service to those in need. It most likely wasn’t that you were looking for a faith-sharing group.

Why have you remained a Vincentian? Of course, it feels good to be of service to those in need. But the need is (always) so great, and we cannot “solve” everyone’s problems — so why do we continue? If you have been a Vincentian for any length of time, I suspect you know the answer: It is because, by the grace of God, that we are able to grow in holiness, in our Vincentian spirituality. How? By the transformative experience of a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, the suffering servant, in those we serve. Being a Vincentian is indeed a calling (by Christ) and it is our vocation.

So, my Vincentian brothers and sisters, the Society of St Vincent de Paul is more than you think. We are not just another agency doing good works — rather, we are Vincentians following a call to (our own) holiness and our own spiritual growth. It is through that growth and orienting ourselves to God that the Holy Spirit works through all of us in service to those in need, making a difference in their lives and ours. In effect, we become missionaries, bringing the Gospel of Christ to someone via a simple act of love. There is no other organization like us!

I would also argue that by emptying ourselves (our egos) and allowing the Holy Spirit inside us, discerning God’s will to guide our lives, can only lead to our own personal growth and transformation. This is no “one-and-done” growth, but rather, an ongoing transformation every day of our lives. Once again, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul offers us a perfect mechanism to do this on a regular basis. As Tim Williams wrote in a recent Contemplation column, this “Discernment of God’s will, then, is not a single event; a flash of insight that tells us every step to take for the rest of our lives.”

Blessed Frédéric put it this way: “It is not enough to take a superficial glance, you need repeated reflection.”

This “repeated reflection” can occur when we regularly meet Jesus in those we serve. Think about every person’s encounter with Jesus in the Gospel — from Simon Peter, Matthew, and all the Apostles, to the leper, the blind, the hemorrhaging woman who but touched the tassel of the cloak of Jesus and so was healed, and all the rest. With the eyes of faith, each of them was changed/transformed after that personal encounter with Christ. After our personal encounters with those in need, so it must be for us — we are continually transformed and, ultimately the results come not from anything we do on our own, but rather via God working through us.

This a cornerstone of our Vincentian charism — when we open ourselves to personal encounters with those in need, we are changed. We have a conversion of heart. We are able to go beyond our limits — we are transformed. We thus can “See the face of Christ and Be the face of Christ.” We do this in friendship and fellowship with our Vincentian brothers and sisters, serving God in the person of those in need, growing in holiness together. So we become more than an agency or people just giving away food or serving at shelters — we begin to see differently, and to experience Christ directly in service to those in need. Thank God for them!

Richard Rohr puts it this way: “Christ is the light that allows people to see things in their fullness and thus to see Christ everywhere else. In fact, a mature Christian sees Christ in everything and everyone else, which will always demand more of us, and give us no reasons to fight, exclude or reject anyone.”

And, of course, Vincent recognized this when he said “the poor are our masters.”

It is my prayer that you focus on the graces you have received from this beautiful Vincentian vocation, and I hope you invite others to personally experience these graces. You may doubt your “worthiness” or your ability to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Remember what Jesus said, “It was not you who chose Me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in My name he may give you.” Echoing the words of Fr. Pat McDevitt, C.M. from a recent retreat, I say to you: My fellow Vincentians — you are special, you are chosen, you are loved, and you are sent. That is enough!

I am confident that if you and I but remember that this unearned grace — the good news of the Gospel in our lives — is enough, then Christ will work through us and be well-pleased with us, his simple and humble servants.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the holy Spirit be with all of you.

Brian

Brian Burgess
Board Liaison to National Subsidiaries

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01-16-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
01-16-25 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

A New Year Call to Hope and Action

My Fellow Vincentians,

As we stand at the beginning of a new year, our hearts may be filled with a mixture of emotions. There’s the excitement of new beginnings, the anticipation of fresh starts, and perhaps a touch of apprehension about the challenges that may lie ahead. But amidst these feelings, one constant remains: the enduring power of hope.

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.

This hope, however, cannot be a passive hope. It must be a hope that is rooted in action, a hope that translates into tangible efforts to make our world a better place.
This year, SVdP USA will be taking new and stronger action to channel our hopes into concrete actions. With the opening of our second National Office in Washington, DC in February, we will be creating a base for increasing our efforts to advocate on behalf of those we serve, and turning 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.

The stark reality is that millions of our brothers and sisters struggle to meet their basic needs. They lack access to affordable housing, nutritious food, and quality healthcare. Children go to bed hungry, families are forced to live on the streets, and countless individuals are trapped in a cycle of poverty that seems impossible to break.

This is a crisis of conscience for our nation. It is a stark reminder that our 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.

How can we translate our hopes and dreams into meaningful action?

First and foremost, 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. In our encounters with those we serve, we must listen with a Servant Heart — not only hearing the facts and numbers associated with the support we give, but hearing their hopes, dreams, and the stories that make them who they are. We cannot help if we do not understand. And we cannot understand if we do not listen.

Secondly, we must challenge the systems and structures that perpetuate poverty. We must advocate for policies that provide affordable housing, living wages, and access to quality education and healthcare for all. We must support organizations that are working to address the root causes of poverty, such as systemic racism and economic inequality. That will be the role of our Washington, DC office and staff. To work with USCCB, Congress, and like-minded nonprofits to drive the change needed to address poverty at its source.

And finally, we must cultivate a spirit of solidarity and collective action. We must recognize 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.

The task before us is daunting, but not insurmountable. We cannot solve the problems of poverty and homelessness overnight. But we, each and every one of us, can 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 has the opportunity to live a life of dignity and hope.

Let us, therefore, embrace this new year with renewed hope and a renewed commitment to action. Let us strive to be instruments of God’s love and mercy in the world. Let us work together to build a beloved community where all are welcome, where all are valued, and where all have the opportunity to flourish.

Peace and God’s Blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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