Dear members of the VMY:
On January 27-29, in Rue du Bac in Paris, the leaders from the different branches of the Vincentian Family met to discuss about the projects achieved in 2005 and those which are to be carried in 2006, assuming the mission that St. Vincent de Paul tried to transmit through the experiences in Folleville and Chatillon, in the concern for the most needy.
The effort taken by all the branches united us towards a greater commitment to fight for justice through love and solidarity in a concerted endeavor so that it may have a better “effect.” All of us have a vocation; we are all called to bear fruit.
VMY is an association of young people. Do we have the fervor of the youth? The enthusiasm to become better? The motivating spirit which is needed to show what the Kingdom of God is for everyone? Are we brave and consistent in our lives or do we become cowards when things become complicated? Do we look into the problems of the people or do we only see without giving them any attention? Are we capable of loving everyone or only those who can offer us something?
In the Encyclical, Deus Caritas Est, (God is Love) Pope Benedict XVI, tells us that “this can only take place on the basis of an intimate encounter with God, an encounter which has become a communion of will, even affecting our feelings. Then we learn to look on this other person not simply with our eyes and our feelings, but from the perspective of Jesus Christ (…) Seeing with the eyes of Christ, we can give to others much more than their outward necessities; we can give them the look of love which they crave.”
In collaboration with the Vincentian Family, sharing the same spirit and love (of St. Vincent) we can become witnesses of God’s love in the love for our neighbors. It is in the service that we give willingly, that which motivates us to love in “common union” with all our brothers and sisters.
This year’s theme invites us to commit with the most needy, to walk with them, offering them everything that we are with simplicity and humility. Are we all willing to do so?
Let us not forgot that God loves and encourages us to build the Kingdom. Let us not turn a deaf ear rather, let us listen to Him. Let us trust just like Mary; let us say “Yes” and start off towards our way. His words invite us to act now.
VMY International Councilor