Vincentian Family begins 350th anniversary year

St Vincent de Paul

Between 27 September 2009 and 27 September 2010 the Vincentian Family will be celebrating a special year of jubilee commemorating the deaths in 1660 of its patrons, St Vincent de Paul and St Louise de Marillac, with a series of events and activities throughout the year.

These two saints literally changed the lives of thousands of poor people. They had a vision which has carried on to this day, inspiring millions of people worldwide to work with vulnerable people, helping them to transform their lives. Today, the Vincentian Family is present in 103 countries with over six million members.

The Vincentian Family in Britain

In response to the needs of vulnerable people, the member organisations of the Vincentian Family run 1845 groups or projects spread over 560 UK constituencies serving a cross-section of the population: children and families, homeless, elderly, young people, those with disability or chronic illnesses, asylum seekers, migrants and those who are trafficked. Member organisations belonging to the Vincentian Family offer support and help to all, regardless of age, religion, sexual orientation or ethnic background.

Jubilee Year Events

Over the coming year a series of national events are being held to mark the 350th Anniversary, alongside many local events being organized by various members.

Activities include:

350 Lives initiative - In addition to its regular work, the Vincentian Family will be working together to make a practical difference in the lives of 350 people (individuals, families or groups). The Vincentian Millennium Partnership, the umbrella body which facilitates networking in the Vincentian Family, is acting as a brokering agency matching need with provision.

Vincentian Family Art competition - a competition will be taking place within the Family to generate art that expresses the Vincentian spirit and ethos. It is hoped that the artwork will be exhibited at 350th events throughout the year.

National liturgical celebrations will be held in Liverpool, London, Glasgow and Edinburgh.