ROMAN INC - SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL - PATRON OF CHARITABLE SOCIETIES
Figurine comes nicely displayed in a box with a front window, with a prayer on the front and the story of the Saint on the back, and a prayer card inside.
"Prayer to Saint Vincent de Paul:
I pray to thee, St. Vincent de Paul, beloved servant of the poor, that I follow your example and do good works among those whom society has abandoned, enslaved, or forgotten. Inspire me to feed the hungry, to love a child, to provide comfort and medicine to the sick, to clothe those whose garments are threadbare, and to offer hope and our Lord's words to all who need our love. Pray for me that I may commit myself selflessly by doing the same charitable acts that you did all your life. I ask that you intercede with our God in Heaven, as I seek the favour of His guidance, strength and love upon this important and meaningful work. Amen."
Although a young peasant, Vincent was educated in Dax, France by the Franciscans. He was ordained in 1600 and graduated from the University of Toulouse in 1604. During his travels, Vincent was captured by Barbary pirates and sold as a slave, but eventually escaped.
When Vincent returned to Paaris, he began working with some of the wealthiest, most prestigious families in France. While serving as chaplain and tutor to the Gondi family, and preaching to the peasants on their estate, he found his true direction - ministering the poor. Subsequently, he established the Confraternities of Charity - organizations and missions of charity, made up of these wealthy women, to help the poor, sick and unemployed. These same women helped him establish hospitals. In 1633 he cofounded the Daughters of Charity, the first noncloistered religious institute of women devoted to active charitable works. Vincent continued to work to benefit those in need for the duration of his life. He is the patron saint of charitable causes and a number of organizations continue his work, seeking out those most in need of God's love and mercy.
Feast Day: September 27
Material: Resin, Stone Mix
Dimensions: Approx. H 8.9cm
