Vincent de Paul (24 April 1581 – 27 September 1660) was a French Catholic priest who dedicated himself to serving the poor. In 1622 Vincent was appointed a chaplain to the galleys. After working for some time in Paris among imprisoned galley slaves, he returned to be the superior of what is now known as the Congregation of the Mission, or the "Vincentians". These priests, with vows of poverty, chastity, obedience, and stability, devoted themselves entirely to the people in smaller towns and villages. Vincent was zealous in conducting retreats for clergy at a time when there was great laxity, abuse, and ignorance among them. He was a pioneer in clerical training and was instrumental in establishing seminaries, and founder of the Congregation of the Mission and Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul. Saint Vincent de Paul has a charity named after him by Blessed Frédéric Ozanam. He was renowned for his compassion, humility, and generosity. Vincent was canonized a saint of the Church in 1737.
QUOTES FROM ST VINCENT DE PAUL
“Humility is nothing but truth, and pride is nothing but lying.”
“Make it a practice to judge
persons and things in the most favorable light
at all times and under all circumstances.”
“Go to the poor: you will find God.”
“Charity is certainly greater than any rule. Moreover, all rules must lead to charity.”
“The kingdom of God is peace in the Holy Spirit; He will reign in you if your heart is at peace. So, be at peace, Mademoiselle, and you will honor in a sovereign way the God of peace and love.”