Transforming Our Culture… Living Our Rule ®

Cultural Beliefs

Reasons for Culture Change The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is challenged to respond to the cries of the poor that are multiplying every day, by increasing the number of Conferences and members.

Reasons for Culture Change Our Rule guides us: “Faithful to the spirit of its founders, the Society constantly strives for renewal, adapting to changing world conditions. It seeks to be ever aware of the changes that occur in human society and the new types of poverty that may be identified or anticipated. It gives priority to the poorest of the poor and to those who are most rejected by society.” (Rule 1.6)

Reasons for Culture Change Pope Francis tells us: “The Church must step outside herself. To go where? To go to the outskirts of existence, whatever they may be, but she must step out.” “In this ‘stepping out’ it is important to be ready for encounter…Encounter with others. Why? Because faith is an encounter with Jesus.” (Pope Francis) And so together we walk the journey of: “Transforming our Culture…Living our Rule.”

Cultural Beliefs SPIRITUAL GROWTH: I grow in holiness through my prayer, Vincentian service and friendship.

Cultural Beliefs SPIRITUAL GROWTH: “Vincentians are called to journey together towards holiness, because true holiness is perfect union with Christ and the perfection of love, which is central to their vocation and the source of its fruitfulness.” (Rule 1: 2.2)

Cultural Beliefs ONE SOCIETY: I contribute to the success of our Vincentian work when I support ONE Society.

Cultural Beliefs ONE SOCIETY: “Spiritual bonds and friendship between members are essential, as is the common mission to help the poor and marginalized. The entire Society is a true and unique worldwide Community of Vincentian friends.” (Rule 1:3.3)

Cultural Beliefs SERVANT LEADERS: I develop myself and others to become Servant Leaders.

Cultural Beliefs SERVANT LEADERS: “Following Christ’s example, the Presidents at all levels of the Society endeavor to be servant leaders. They provide an encouraging atmosphere in which the talents, capacities and spiritual charism of the members are identified, developed and put to the service of the poor and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The President of the Conference and the Council will have special responsibility for promoting Vincentian Spirituality.” (Rule 1: 3.11)

Cultural Beliefs TODAY’S SOCIETY: I strengthen the Society by embracing new and diverse ideas and people.

Cultural Beliefs TODAY’S SOCIETY: “No work is foreign to the Society. It includes any form of help that alleviates suffering or deprivation and promotes human dignity and personal integrity in all their dimensions.” (Rule 1:1.3)

Cultural Beliefs EMBRACE ACCOUNTABILITY: I build a strong Society by holding myself and others accountable to our Mission, the Essential Elements, and good Governance.

Cultural Beliefs EMBRACE ACCOUNTABILITY: “After prayerful consideration of all circumstances involved, Vincentians should apply themselves to their maximum ability in fulfillment of the Mission and Essential Elements of the Society.” (Rule 3: Statute 5)

Cultural Beliefs INCLUSIVE PLANNING: I foster ownership by involving membership in planning and decision making.

Cultural Beliefs INCLUSIVE PLANNING: “At least once a year, each Conference and Council must evaluate their service to the members, to the poor, the effectiveness of their special works, etc., and explore ways to provide better service. They should also consider new types of needs they may seek to alleviate and how to find those who are in need.” (Rule 3: Statute 22)

Cultural Beliefs ADVOCATE FOR JUSTICE: I advocate with the poor for just policies and practices at local, state and national levels.

Cultural Beliefs ADVOCATE FOR JUSTICE: “A Voice for the Voiceless: The Society helps the poor and disadvantaged speak for themselves. When they cannot, the Society must speak on behalf of those who are ignored.” (Rule 1:7.5)

Key Results 1. Increase Number of Active and Associate Members from 96,000 to 250,000. Increase formed and revitalized Vincentians Increase diversity in membership and leadership Increase Conferences and Councils

Key Results 2. Increase Number of Councils/Conferences utilizing systemic change strategies from 20% to 80%. Focus on getting people out of poverty

Key Results 3. Increase Number of people served from 14 million to 20 million. Increase and renew home visits Increase services through Special Works

Key Results 4. Increase income of all Councils/ Conferences from $375 million to $925 million.

Key Results 5. Local Council Key Result.

Cultural Beliefs