He founded the Congregation of the Mission to preach to the rural poor, and with St Louise de Marillac the Daughters of Charity, who went out into the streets instead of staying in a cloister, an unusual idea in the 1600s. He organized wealthy women to fund hospitals, ransomed galley slaves and set up homes for abandoned babies. He died on 27 September 1660. Two centuries later, a young layman named Frédéric Ozanam founded the Society of St Vincent de Paul, which now serves the poor in around 150 countries.
Historical Context
A September 27 Prayer
Lord, on the feast of St Vincent de Paul,
open my eyes to the poor around me.
Let me serve them not as a project, but as you,
with respect, kindness and practical help.
Bless every Vincentian, volunteer and charity worker.
St Vincent, pray for us.
Amen.
Before Serving
Lord, I’m going to meet you today in someone who needs help.
Let me recognize you.
Amen.
For the Poor
Lord, for everyone who will go hungry or sleep cold tonight,
send help, and let some of it be me.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 27 September.
- Before a St Vincent de Paul Society home visit.
- Before volunteering at a food pantry or shelter.
Scripture Connection
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor.” — Luke 4:18
Jesus’ first sermon at Nazareth named the poor first. Vincent de Paul built his life on it.
Related prayers
For service, see the Volunteer Prayer and the November 17 Prayer. For September, the September 22 Prayer.