Young Vincentians gathered at St George’s Cathedral in Southwark recently to celebrate the 180th anniversary of the St Vincent de Paul Society in England and Wales. United in Vincentian spirituality, Mini Vinnies and Youth SVP groups travelled in pilgrimage from the Dioceses of Arundel and Brighton, Brentwood, Southwark, and Westminster.

Archbishop John Wilson started the celebration with Mass and told the young people about another Young Vincentian, Bl. Pierre Giorgio Frassati who used to enjoy mountain climbing but was also known for his kindness to those struggling with poverty in his community.

Sarah Barber, the Director of Young Vincentians and Youth Services, explained:

“The purpose of the day was to share what it means to be a Vincentian and to celebrate the work done to support people by the younger members of the SVP.”

Currently the SVP Youth Team are searching for more volunteers to support their work in schools. If interested, please contact [email protected].

The St Vincent de Paul Society (SVP) was established in England and Wales in 1844 and is part of a large and thriving Christian voluntary movement dedicated to tackling poverty in all its forms by providing practical assistance to people in need in 153 countries. Our core value is one of service and we treat each person as a unique individual deserving of dignity and respect. Person-to-person contact is therefore at the heart of our work and spending time with people is our greatest gift. We offer non-judgemental support to anyone in need, regardless of faith, race, gender, sexual orientation, background or circumstances.

Our 870 local groups comprise 8,600 trained volunteer members who visit vulnerable or isolated people and offer them sincere friendship and practical support. In ten areas of the country, our work has evolved into vibrant local community support centres that respond to local needs and offer a warm welcome to everyone.

Article from Diocese of Brentwood COMMS & Photos by Siân Thomas-Cullinan