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April 28, 2022On Divine Mercy Sunday, about 80 members of St. Vincent de Paul Worcester gathered to “recommit themselves to faithfulness as they carry out their mission as Vincentians,” according to Susan Treveloni, society president. Father William E. Champlin, spiritual adviser, celebrated the annual commitment ceremony during a Mass at St. Leo Church in Leominster.
“Father Champlin gave a heartfelt and moving homily about how important the work of the society is, particularly during the challenging times which we live in today,” Mrs. Treveloni said.
Father Champlin imparted a special blessing for new Vincentians as they embark on their journey.
Following the Mass, a luncheon was held.
“Our guest speaker (who chooses to remain anonymous) gave a beautiful talk on why he became a Vincentian,” she said. “The talk touched all our hearts as it explored the true meaning of our core values, which are friendship, spirituality, and service. The Mass, coupled with the talk, gave true witness to our journey of faith in this beautiful ministry.”
The date of the ceremony holds a special meaning, Mrs. Treveloni said as she explained the history of the society. St. Vincent de Paul was born on April 24, 1581, and Blessed Frederic Ozanam was born on April 23, 1813. In 1833, at 20 years of age, Blessed Frederic Ozanam founded and established the first conference in Paris. Soon after, Blessed Frederic placed the conference under the patronage of St. Vincent de Paul, who had spent his life in 16th century France serving the poor.
Today, there are 800,000 Vincentians worldwide. In the United States, there are 4,400 conferences, she said. A list of the 23 conferences in the Worcester Diocese can be found at: www.svdpworcester.org.
“Vincentians engage in a number of works that help our brothers and sisters in need. Our work involves immediate relief, if possible, but, more importantly, we strive to help people gain sustainability so they can provide for themselves,” Mrs. Treveloni explained.
