Society of St. Vincent de Paul Mission Statement
“A network of friends, inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need.”
Who We Are
Inspired by Gospel values, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic lay organization, leads women and men to join together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those who are needy and suffering in the tradition of its founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul.
As a reflection of the whole family of God, members, who are known as Vincentians, are drawn from every ethnic and cultural background, age group, and economic level. Vincentians are united in an international society of charity by their spirit of poverty, humility and sharing, which is nourished by prayer and reflection, mutually supportive gatherings and adherence to a basic Rule.
Organized locally, Vincentians witness God's love by embracing all works of charity and justice. The Society collaborates with other people of good will in relieving need and addressing its causes, making no distinction in those served because, in them, Vincentians see the face of Christ.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store Mission Statement
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores throughout the United States are an association of lay employees and volunteers dedicated to serve our needy sisters and brothers. All who come to our stores are welcomed with dignity and respect. We hope they leave as friends to shop with us again. Those who cannot afford the clothing, furniture, and other household items they need, will be provided for through a Vincentian initiated referral system.
Our customers, employees, and volunteers are treated equally without regard to race, color, creed, age, sex, or national origin. All people, including the disadvantaged, handicapped, and other special persons, are employed so that we may all benefit from the talents and abilities of everyone seeking employment.
Serving Christ’s needy is the first purpose of all St. Vincent de Paul Stores. To continue in this ministry, we will use sound business practices. Surplus funds will be used to support parish conferences and other Society charitable causes approved by our councils and board of directors.
“You are the servant of the poor. They are your masters, and the more difficult they will be, the more unjust and insulting, the more love you must give them. It is your love alone that the poor will forgive you the bread you will give them.”
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
1581 – 1660