Posted by Susan
After miraculously surviving a traumatic car accident, I was left with a feeling of immense gratitude for God's mercy and for the generosity of strangers who assisted me and my family. I found myself asking God what He wanted me to do to help others.
The Society of Saint Vincent De Paul/St. Raphael Conference (SVdP) was having a training session for new members of group who work together to help those in need in our community. I felt a little hesitant, but reflected that whenever I respond 'YES' to hearing God's voice in my heart, great things happen in my life - to me, my loved ones and other with whom I have contact.
So, I answered the call and attended the meeting. Angela, the president of SVdP at the time was so gentle and welcoming. I listened to the members as they described this 200 year old organization founded by Blessed Frederic Ozanam in France and inspired by St. Vincent de Paul. The members meet the poor where ever they are - surprisingly even people living in quiet desperation in our own Potomac and Rockville neighborhoods.
A team of two Vincentians, a man and a woman, visit the poor without judgment of their circumstances or any preconceived ideas of solutions. We pray before, during, and after the visit. We use case numbers and refer to each person as a client. Therefore, confidentiality is assured and protected. We take our time to listen to their situation and help discern their immediate needs while empowering our clients with hope and respecting their choices.
After the home visit, the team makes a recommendation to SVdP/St. Raphael Conference and every member discusses and votes on the recommendation. SVdP is able to provide some financial assistance to clients using the proceeds from the parish poor box collection and donations from parishioners. Most of all, our work in SVdP is about loving the people we listen to and giving them the dignity they deserve. We try to assist them as Jesus would have done.
For many reasons, people can be afraid or unsure about helping others in need. If that's you, you might find courage when you learn about the abundant graces and blessings that God gives to those who help others.
Stay tuned - find part three here.
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