Pope Leo XIV met on Friday with a delegation from the St. Vincent de Paul Society of the United States, commending the organization for its dedicated outreach to those in need across the country. Established in 1833, the global lay society—part of the broader Vincentian Family—focuses on the spiritual growth of its members through direct personal service to the poor. In his address, the Pope praised the delegates for using their God-given talents to offer an eloquent witness of faith in service to God’s Kingdom.
Highlighting the core identity of the organization, Pope Leo emphasized that prayer and active social justice are not merely complementary, but fundamentally inseparable. Drawing on the legacy of St. Vincent de Paul, he encouraged members to deepen their personal relationship with Jesus Christ to better guide their mission. He also referenced St. Augustine, noting that acts of charity rooted in love not only alleviate the suffering of others but also open the heart of the giver to receiving God’s grace.
Concluding his message, the Pope urged the Society’s members to give their time generously, assuring them that serving Christ in the poor serves to purify the heart. By doing so, he explained, believers become more equipped to recognize the presence of Christ in their neighbors—both in the vulnerable populations they assist and the colleagues with whom they work.