Saint Vincent de Paul Society

In 1833, Frederic Ozanam, and a group of students from the Sorbonne University were challenged to prove their faith in Christ through action, not just words. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul was formed when they took up this challenge and began to work with the desperately poor in Paris. Developing a simple system, they went in teams to help the poor in their homes, in the streets, in the hospitals and the asylums. Adopting as their patron St. Vincent de Paul, a 16th century cleric renowned for his work with the poor, the Society arose from humble beginnings to become an international organization found in 130 countries with one million members.

Helping those in need is important and very worthwhile. The desire to help the poor and others in need is part of what calls and drives the Vincentian (the volunteer, lay member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul). The member also views this service as a way of acting on their faith and responding to God’s call to love God and our neighbour. This article attempts to define the essence of Vincentian spirituality.

Our special works in Toronto include:

Mary's Home
Amelie House
St. Clare's Residence
Elisa House

St. Francis Residence
Ozanam House
Marygrove Camp
Prison Apostolate and Court Services