Vincentian Convocation 2024 | November 14–17

On 14th November 2024, the Ghione Theatre in Rome was filled with joy and camaraderie as over 300 members of the Vincentian Family from five continents came together for the opening of the Second International Convocation of the Vincentian Family. This event marked the beginning of four days dedicated to reflection, dialogue, and collaboration, all with the goal of strengthening their shared commitment to serving those in need. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as participants reunited with brothers and sisters who share the same charism passed down from Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac. We were fortunate to have four Daughters of Charity from the Province of Rosalie Rendu, Sisters Maria, Ratana, Margaret and Maureen present.

After the welcome address and the presentation of awards, the participants joined in a community prayer. They asked for God’s grace to follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ by serving the poor, in the spirit of Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac. It was a moment of deep spirituality that reinforced their shared sense of mission.

Following the prayer, Father Tomaž Mavrič, CM, President of the Vincentian Family Executive Board, delivered an inspiring reflection titled “The Fuel That Keeps the Fire of Vincentian Synodality Burning.” In his talk, he reflected on how Saint Vincent de Paul deeply lived out the concept of Providence and how that spirit should continue to guide the Vincentian Family today.

Father Mavrič stressed the importance of collaboration among the various branches of the Vincentian movement. “To be truly effective, we must work together,” He urged us to act together to meet the world’s needs.

The 2nd day of the Convocation was a living testimony to the Vincentian Family's commitment to the values of justice, charity, and integral care for both the person and creation. From the morning Eucharist to the afternoon working sessions, the participants demonstrated a deep desire to be agents of change in the world, inspired by the example of St. Vincent de Paul.

On the 3rd day, after the Eucharist, participants watched a video presentation giving a panoramic view of the extensive work carried out by the Vincentian Family around the world. From programmes assisting the homeless to community development projects, the Vincentian Family has become a beacon of hope in numerous underserved communities across the globe.

One of the most anticipated moments of the day was the presentation by Natalie Monteza, who provided an overview of the impact of the FAMVIN Homeless Alliance in recent years, as well as the exciting projects on the horizon. Natalie, with her extensive experience in international cooperation and human rights advocacy, has devoted her life to serving the most vulnerable.

The afternoon was dedicated to thematic meetings, which took place from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Six discussion groups were organized, focusing on topics of great relevance to the Vincentian mission:

The day concluded on a high note with a concert by Gen Verde at the Ghione Theatre, starting at 8:00 p.m. The group, known for its cultural diversity and message of hope, delivered a performance full of energy and spirituality that deeply moved all attendees. Gen Verde, composed of women from various nationalities, has been using music as a means to promote dialogue, peace, and unity for over 50 years. With a repertoire that blends pop, rock and international rhythms, their mission is to be a living testimony of the Gospel through art.

With hearts filled with gratitude and enthusiasm, participants eagerly looked forward to the 17th November's highly anticipated meeting with Pope Francis, as part of the World Day of the Poor. This special moment will be an opportunity to renew the Vincentian Family’s commitment to being, like St. Vincent de Paul, witnesses of God’s love for the poor and marginalized.