Every year hundreds of Vincentians – those in leadership as well as regular members of conferences- gather in a major U.S. city to participate in the Annual National Assembly. The site chosen this year was Houston, Texas and occurred during the last few days of August.
Seventeen Vincentians from our own diocese attended including Tom Abbate, executive director, and Terri Zenobio and Paula Migliore from Vincentian Services. Recently I had the opportunity to interview them with the purpose of conveying to all of our Vincentians something of the content and spirit of this major event.
Each of them found the keynote addresses especially inspiring. Bishop Donald Hying, the National Spiritual Director, spoke about radical moments of transformation in our lives, moments that “cut to the heart” and draw us more deeply into the paschal mystery of Jesus dying and rising. The other address was given by Fr. Dennis Holtschneider, CM who pointed out the many occasions we are interrupted or inconvenienced by those we serve. He noted how many biblical passages reveal that Jesus was often “interrupted” but still responded with patience and compassion.
Photo credit: https://ssvpusa.org/
In addition to these talks there were over 25 workshops during the course of the four day meeting. One of the workshops entitled, “Planning a Spiritual Retreat,” was given by our own staff members, Paula Migliore and Terri Zenobio. I also participated in the presentation remotely by way of Zoom. Over 80 Vincentians attended the workshop which offered participants the various elements that go into creating a successful spiritual retreat. We felt proud that we could represent our diocese on a national level and share our retreat experience, pointing out to our fellow Vincentians the various approaches and resources that are available.
More than the content of the gathering in Houston, Paula and Terri and Tom agreed that the Vincentian charism of servant leadership was very much in evidence. Both in formal presentations and casual conversations participants spoke of their own Vincentian story, how they were called to this unique ministry, and what sustains their commitment year after year. It can be said that attending an event of this kind is like getting a shot in the arm that reinforces the inner calling to serve the poor despite obstacles and events beyond our control like a pandemic. This experience reminded our diocesan representatives that the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is more than a charitable organization – one among many – but a network of friends who desire to grow in holiness by fulfilling the Lord’s command to serve the least.
Photo credit: https://ssvpusa.org/
Next year the national assembly will be held in Baltimore, Maryland in late August not far from Long Island. Consider participating in this annual event and then return home with new insights to better serve the poor and a renewed sense of dedication as a Vincentian.
