Here at Saint Brigid, our local Saint Vincent de Paul Society Conference works quietly and effectively to help those in need in our local community. The need for assistance has increased dramatically in the Atlanta area at this time due primarily to the impact of the COVID-19 virus. Some people have lost their jobs, while others suffer in various ways. Their need for assistance is very real and, in some instances, immediate.
Charity is at the heart of the mission of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. As mentioned previously, Saint Leo the Great is quoted as saying that “any time is the right time for charity. Where God finds charity with its loving concern, there He recognizes the reflection of His own Fatherly care.” This call for charity is also reflected in the Book of the Prophet Isaiah as the Lord states, “Share your bread with the hungry. Shelter the oppressed and the homeless. Clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own.”
Our Conference has a team of trained caseworkers who carefully evaluate the needs of those who seek assistance. It seeks to help those in need to regain spiritual, financial or emotional stability. While doing proper “due diligence” in attempting to evaluate true needs, it is always striving to act in a spirit of charity.
The following prayer from NovenaPrayer.com reflects the essence of the ministry and mission of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society as it seeks the guidance and intercession of St. Vincent:
Saint Vincent, the patron of all charitable associations and father of those who are in misery, come to our assistance.
Obtain from our Lord help for the poor, relief for the infirm, consolation for the afflicted, protection for the abandoned, a spirit of generosity for the rich, grace of conversion for sinners, zeal for priests, peace for the church, tranquility, and order for all nations, and salvation for them all.
May we be united in the life to come, by your intercession, and experience joy, goodness, and everlasting happiness.
Amen
As we reflect on this prayer, we are reminded once again that Jesus said that whatever we do to the least of His people, we do unto Him. At Saint Brigid, we are truly appreciative of the efforts of those in our faith community who work on behalf of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Through our prayers and support of the unselfish work of the Society, especially in these difficult and uncertain times, we can open our hearts and truly have a positive impact on the lives of those in our midst.