A New Way to Experience God: Serving Through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul

What if the key to a deeper relationship with God was found not in doing more for ourselves, but in showing up for someone else? That’s the invitation I’ve extended to my parish—and now, to you. At Mary, Mother of God Parish in Chicago, we’ve rekindled a powerful tradition of service through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP). Our newly reactivated Conference is more than just a ministry—it’s a living, breathing expression of the Gospel.

Who We Are and What We Do

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international Catholic organization dedicated to serving those in need with dignity and love. But more than that, it's a path to spiritual growth through service. In our parish community, this looks like:

• Supporting our unhoused neighbors with basic needs, resources, and respect
• Accompanying migrants and families in crisis with personalized care
• Offering not just help, but hope—one visit, one conversation at a time

We work quietly, respectfully, and confidentially—always rooted in prayer and a desire to see Christ in those we serve.

Why Now?

In a world overwhelmed by need, it’s easy to feel paralyzed. But God doesn’t call us to fix everything—He calls us to act with love where we are. Reactivating the Conference at our parish is our response to that call. We saw the need in our neighborhoods, and we’re choosing to step in, not because we have all the answers, but because we have willing hearts.

What’s Different About This Kind of Service?

This isn’t just volunteering. This is a vocation. Vincentians walk with people. We don’t stand above or apart. We listen. We learn. And yes—we grow. In every encounter, we’re reminded that it is Christ we serve, and Christ we meet. For many of us, this journey has changed how we see the world—and ourselves.

Want to Join Us?

You don’t need special skills. You don’t need to have it all together. You just need a heart open to God and others. Whether you can give your time, your presence, or your prayers, there’s a place for you in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Let this be the year you say yes to something more. A new way to experience God may be waiting—right on the other side of service.