More than 100 Vincentians and friends were reacquainted at a reunion in Chicago in January.

Vincentians and Friends Reunited in Chicago

It was a cold, winter day in Chicago, but the gathering for the friends of the Vincentians warmed the room as they visited and shared memories. On January 27, 2008, 120 Vincentians, former CMs and seminarians, and donors joined together to celebrate the mission of St. Vincent de Paul.

The event began with morning Mass at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Lincoln Park. The Mass was celebrated by Father James Swift, CM, Provincial Superior of the Midwest Province, Father Patrick Harrity, CM, Pastor of St. Vincent’s Parish, and concelebrated by nine other Vincentians. Prayers were offered for the continued support of our benefactors, who joined us in body and spirit, to help us fulfill our mission of evangelizing the poor in honor of St. Vincent de Paul.

After Mass, everyone took a short, brisk walk down the block to the student center at DePaul University for a reception. After a welcome by Fr. Swift and a prayer by Father Patrick McDevitt, CM, guests enjoyed a brunch and an afternoon of socializing and learning more about the Vincentians and their many works.

Along the perimeter of the room, Vincentians offered the opportunity for guests to explore some of the works of the Midwest Province. Brother Leo Kriegher, CM, had newsletters and pictures detailing stories of the poor he serves at the Backdoor Ministry in Lincoln Park. Father Ron Hoye, CM, showcased the active University Ministry at DePaul, VOYA (Vincentian Outreach to Young Adults), VMY (Vincentian Marian Youth), and SOMOPRO (Southeast Missouri Project). Brother Tim Opferman, CM, talked about the Kenya mission, which is foremost in many minds with the recent turmoil gripping the country. Father Don Ours, CM, Director of Seniority, provided information on the care of our retired priests and brothers at the new Apostle of Charity Residence in Perryville, Missouri, and how they continue to serve in active ministries even in their senior years. Finally, there were many yearbooks, scrapbooks, and old videos for reminiscing by former CMs and seminarians.

Bob Mazor, a former seminarian, commented, “I am glad that I am now receiving the newsletter so that I can keep up with what is going on with the Vincentians. I am very happy to be in contact with the Vincentians again. It is great to be here today connecting with people from the past.”

Rosemary Schnell is a member of the Fourth Presbyterian Church in downtown Chicago, and a long-time supporter of the Vincentians. Ms. Schnell said, “I admire the dedication of the Vincentians and consider them great friends. Father John Richardson, CM, and Father John Cortelyou, CM, made a difference in so many lives, especially mine.”

The Vincentians are grateful to everyone for their continued commitment to the mission of St. Vincent de Paul and to the Midwest Province. This simple celebration was an opportunity to express gratitude for the valued support and collaboration received throughout the year.

Father James Swift, CM, Provincial Superior of the Midwest Province, (left, center)
visited with friends Diana and Ronald Nawrocki.