While we might think of St. Vincent as being a 'do-gooder' who liked doing nice things for people, Vincent was certainly not naive about the needs of the poor, nor the situations that kept people in poverty and misery. Vincent insisted (and provided for) that those in need take responsibility in changing their lives, and become self sufficient. By forming schools, training centers, and establishing what were basically half-way houses, St. Vincent helped peoples and families get back on their feet.
Knowing the value of education, and the need for priests to evangelize, Vincent worked also to reform the formation and education of priests. His seminaries were probably considered radical for the day, but he prepared priests to work away from the office as it were. He realized that the clergy needed a firm theological base, and would be able to preach well. This would serve those faithful who attended to their spiritual life on a regular basis, as well draw men and women from sin and harmful ways, into a life of virtue and grace.
Even today the Saint Vincent DePaul Society does not give out services without first speaking with those in need as to what their real needs are. In most parishes, people would come to the office expecting cash to take care of their needs. St. Vincent's notion was that persons, full of God's grace and goodness, are able to do fo themselves, with a little assistance and encouragement. To simply give 'things' to the poor usurps their dignity and integrity. For those that come to our office that does not always sit too well.
Jesus' command to the disciples provide food for the crowds themselves, is carried out in the Saint Vincent DePaul Society, in the spirit of its founder. St. Vincent's legacy lives on by doing corporal and spiritual works of mercy.
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