September 26 is the feast of Saint Vincent de Paul, the 17th century French priest known for his apostolic work among the poor and marginalized. He was renowned for his charity, humility, and generosity.
Brief Biography of Saint Vincent de Paul
Vincent was born to a poor family in Gascony, France in 1581. An intellectually gifted youth, he began his theological studies at the age of 15. At the age of 20, he was ordained and served as a tutor for many years.
On a voyage to the Holy Land, Vincent’s ship was boarded by pirates. The pirates captured him and sold into slavery in Africa. There he converted his master to Christianity and was freed after two years.
When he returned to France, Vincent was appointed to a parish near Paris. At his new congregation, he organized missions for the poor, sick, uneducated, and unemployed.
Saint Vincent de Paul founded the Congregation of the Mission and the Congregation of the Daughters of Charity with Louise de Merillac. In addition, he also sent priests to Africa to minister to and ransom slaves.
He vigorously opposed Jansenism and helped reform orders of priests and religious, famously preaching retreats around France.
The humble Saint Vincent de Paul often spoke on humility saying once, “The most powerful weapon to conquer the devil is humility. For, as he does not know at all how to employ it, neither does he know how to defend himself from it.”
Vincent died in 1660 in Paris and his body still lays there in an incorrupt state. Pope Clement XII canonized him on June 16, 1737.
Saint Vincent de Paul is the patron saint of all works of charity. He is also the patron of charitable societies, horses, hospitals, prisoners, and spiritual help.
Prayer to Saint Vincent de Paul
Noble Saint Vincent de Paul,
beloved servant of the poor,
may we follow your example and do good works
among those whom society has abandoned,
enslaved, or forgotten.
Inspire us to feed the hungry,
to love a child,
to provide comfort and medicine to the sick,
to clothe those whose garments are threadbare,
and to offer hope and our Lord’s words
to all who need respite.
Pray for us to our beloved God
that we may commit ourselves selflessly
to doing the same charitable acts
that you did all your life,
and intercede with him
that we may have the favor of his guidance
and strength and love upon this important and meaningful work.
Amen.
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