The OLM St. Vincent de Paul Society meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 9:00AM in the Library. For financial aid call: 706-692-7604
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) is a Catholic lay organization dedicated to providing assistance to those in need. The society operates globally and is named after St. Vincent de Paul, a 17th-century French priest known for his compassion and dedication to serving the poor.
The main mission of the SVDP is to address the needs of the less fortunate through direct, person-to-person assistance. Members, often referred to as Vincentians, engage in charitable activities such as visiting individuals and families in need, providing material assistance (food, clothing, shelter), and offering emotional and spiritual support.
SVDP is present in numerous countries around the world, and its structure allows for flexibility in responding to the specific needs of local communities. The society's work is aligned with the Catholic Church's social justice teachings and serves as a tangible expression of the Church's commitment to caring for the marginalized and vulnerable members of society.
Key aspects of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul include:
1. Mission: The primary mission of SVDP is to provide direct, person-to-person assistance to those in need. This assistance can take various forms, including material aid (food, clothing, shelter), financial support, and emotional or spiritual support.
2. Conference Structure: SVDP operates through local conferences, which are groups of volunteers affiliated with a particular parish or community. Each conference is responsible for carrying out the society's charitable activities in its respective area.
3. Home Visits: One of the distinctive features of SVDP is its commitment to making home visits. Volunteers, often referred to as Vincentians, visit the homes of individuals and families seeking assistance to better understand their needs and offer personalized help.
4. Emergency Assistance: SVDP provides emergency assistance to those facing immediate crises, such as financial hardships, homelessness, or other urgent needs. The society aims to address both the immediate needs and the underlying causes of poverty.
5. Thrift Stores: Many SVDP conferences operate thrift stores where donated goods are sold at affordable prices. The funds generated from these stores contribute to the society's charitable activities.
6. Spiritual Growth: SVDP places a strong emphasis on the spiritual growth of its members. Volunteers are encouraged to integrate prayer, reflection, and a commitment to Gospel values into their service to others.
7. Collaboration: The society often collaborates with other community organizations, social service agencies, and government entities to address systemic issues contributing to poverty.
