Vincentian Family – Pope Francis’ Blessing - Sister of Charity of Saint Jeanne Antide Thouret

On November 17th 2024, St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome was filled with a special fervor as the Second Assembly of the Vincentian Family concluded with the celebration of Mass for the World Day of the Poor.

Over 300 members of the Vincentian Family, representing different branches of this large spiritual family, were present on this day of reflection and commitment to the most vulnerable.

Before the Eucharist, a delegation from the Vincentian Family had the privilege of meeting with Pope Francis in a gathering marked by closeness and deep spiritual significance. During this meeting, the Holy Father blessed the keys for the Vincentian Family’s “13 Houses” Project for the Jubilee. This project, which is part of a global initiative, seeks to provide dignified housing for homeless people and those in vulnerable situations, a mission that embodies the charism of St. Vincent de Paul, focused on serving the poor.

The blessing of these keys symbolizes a renewed commitment from the Vincentian Family to continue working for those most in need, especially during this time of preparation for the Jubilee.

The “13 Houses” Project: A Concrete Sign of Hope

The blessing of the keys for the “13 Houses” Project was an especially moving moment during this event. Inspired by the Vincentian charism, this project aims to provide a home to those in need, offering not only a roof over their heads but also a place where they can rebuild their lives with dignity. The Vincentian Family has been tirelessly working to expand this initiative globally, responding to Christ’s call to welcome the stranger and care for the most vulnerable.

Pope Francis, in blessing these keys, encouraged the Vincentian Family to continue with this mission, highlighting the importance of offering concrete and sustainable solutions to the issues of poverty and social exclusion. “It’s not just about providing temporary help but offering a path of hope and a future”, the Pope remarked.

A Eucharist Filled with Meaning

The Mass for the World Day of the Poor, celebrated in the majestic Basilica of St. Peter, was a moment of deep reflection and prayer. The atmosphere in the basilica was one of reverence, with faithful from all over the world coming together to join in this significant celebration. Among them were members of the Vincentian Family, whose presence underscored their commitment to the poor and marginalized.

The liturgy, presided over by Pope Francis, focused on the importance of being attentive to the needs of others, especially those who are invisible to society. The Pope, in his homily, made a powerful call not to reduce faith to empty rituals but to live it out through concrete commitments to the most vulnerable.

Final Reflections: A Path of Charity and Commitment

The closing of the Second Assembly of the Vincentian Family in the context of the World Day of the Poor was a moment of spiritual renewal and a reaffirmation of the mission to serve those most in need. This event not only celebrated the unity of the Vincentian Family but also strengthened its mission to continue working for the poor and marginalized.

Pope Francis’ call to live a coherent and committed faith resonates deeply in the hearts of all who participated in this day. The invitation to see Christ in the poor and serve them generously is a powerful reminder that the Gospel is not just a theory but a practice of love that transforms lives.

Prayer Inspired by Pope Francis’ Message for the World Day of the Poor

Lord, hear the prayer of the poor,
which rises to your presence with the strength of faith and hope.
Make us able to live with humility,
recognizing that we are all in need of your love.
Grant us a generous heart,
willing to share the suffering of those
who have the least and to be instruments of your justice and mercy.
May our prayer not remain in words
but be transformed into concrete acts of charity, drawing us closer to the poor
as brothers and sisters and sharing with them the gift of your peace.
Help us never to forget that in the faces of those who suffer,
we see the face of your Son Jesus,
who invites us to love them with the same love that You give us.
Through the intercession of Mary, Mother of the poor and humble,
we ask you to guide us on this path of prayer, service, and dedication.
Amen.