St. Vincent de Paul
Apostle of Charity
Feast Day: September 27
Biography
St. Vincent de Paul (1581–1660) was a French priest who became the most influential figure in Catholic charitable work. After experiencing captivity by pirates and a crisis of faith, he dedicated his life to serving the poorest members of society. He founded the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) for the education of clergy and evangelization of the poor, and co-founded the Daughters of Charity with St. Louise de Marillac — the first community of women religious not bound to a cloister. He organized massive relief efforts during wars and famines, established hospitals and orphanages, ransomed over 1,200 galley slaves from North Africa, and reformed seminary education. His name became synonymous with charity, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society, founded in 1833 by Bl. Frédéric Ozanam, continues his work worldwide.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Vincent de Paul, apostle of charity, help me to see Christ in the faces of the poor and to serve them with generous love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Vincent de Paul, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Vincent de Paul, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.