‘The question which divides people today is whether Society will be merely an immense exploitation for the benefit of the strongest or a consecration of everyone for the service of all’. So wrote Frederick Ozanam the 19th century founder of the Society of St Vincent de Paul which is a key agency in the Church across the world, including a number of branches in the Church of England, serving the poor.
The aspiration to get people gifts directed to God’s praise and service and not just to their own benefit is basic to Christianity. Generation after generation needs reminding of this and Ozanam’s reminder was today’s Saint.
St. Vincent de Paul was born in Aquitaine and became a priest. He devoted his whole life to the service of the poor. He founded a congregation of priests for missionary work which the Society of the Holy Cross emulates. Vincent organised groups of laymen to help paupers and galley-slaves which led to the worldwide Society bearing his name.
Where did he get the vision and the energy to accomplish all he did? Can we find a message of spiritual encouragement relevant to our own lives in Vincent’s story.
His call came to him through the experience of a false accusation.
As a young man he was accused of theft and had to bear a lot of shame, though utterly blameless of the charge.
Vincent came to find in his own misrepresentation a closeness to Christ.
‘For one is approved if, mindful of God, he endures pain while suffering unjustly’ wrote St. Peter, ‘for…Christ also suffered for you…who committed no sin’. 1 Peter 2:19,21
Vincent’s biographer suggests that he became a great representative of Christ precisely on account of that bearing of misrepresentation in his youth.
Instead of becoming embittered, his spirit had in fact been sweetened by the experience of humiliation.
Who knows what trials await us in the coming days, weeks and years? In our disappointments, if there are any, will we make an appointment with Our Lord as Vincent did?
Christ is well able to turn suffering and humiliation to good if we allow him space to do so. As ever, the choice is ours.
We know that in everything God works for good, wrote Paul, adding this qualification, with those who love him.
Lord, we love you. Out of love for you may we accept all that comes our way as part of our preparation for heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
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