A Message from Our St. Vincent de Paul Society

In our mission as the St. Vincent de Paul Society here at St. Austin, conference members often try to educate themselves about poverty and ways to address it.

One such opportunity came with an online event called “Overcoming Poverty as a Moral Imperative and National Priority.” One of the presenters made a statement that really challenged the status quo on how we well-meaning Christians often approach aiding those experiencing poverty. She said “The poor have so much more than their poverty! Those in poverty know how to describe their own problems and solutions. WE need to listen!” Indeed, humbling words.

Another presenter shared, with equal clarity, “Recognize that everyone has dignity and potential; celebrate the first and maximize the latter!”

These wise folks have good company in Pope Francis, who counsels us to stay close to people who need help, and they will not lead us astray. In this extended time of COVID, while SVdP members are still unable to make home visits and eye-to-eye contact, pray that we share this valuable message with God’s precious, vulnerable children.