St. Vincent De Paul seems to be everywhere. 

He worked with St. Louise De Marillac to found the Daughters of Charity. He’s the Patron Saint of ALL Charities, DePaul Hospital, and, of course, The St. Vincent DePaul Society. 

Wherever there is a need for care, St. Vincent DePaul seems to be there, and calling us. 

Born in France in 1581, his parents were poor farmers. Vincent was a gifted student and when he was 15, his father sold two oxen so he could go to seminary. 

He was ordained at 19 but was not allowed to practice as a priest until he was 24. 

Vincent had quite a journey for several years. Some versions of his life suggest he was abducted and sold into slavery twice before escaping back to France. 

He went to Rome for more study, was sent back to France on a mission for Henry VI and, then, he became a parish priest. 

From his parish, he formed a confraternity of women to help the poor. The effort was so successful it spread to Paris. 

With the help of St. Louise DeMarillac, came the work that led to the Daughters of Charity. 

He helped collect funds for hospitals, missionary projects, victims of war, and the ransom of galley slaves from North Africa. 

In 1622, Vincent became the Superior of The Congregation of The Mission which became known as The Vincentians. 

He died in 1660 but his work, through so many channels, continues to spread all over the world to this day. 

St. Vincent De Paul, please pray for us.