In his letters, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam voiced his wish for all young people to be united in head and heart in charitable work throughout France as a generous association for the relief of the common people. That 
same spirit was alive in Rome this year as young Vincentians from around the world gathered to share 
faith, fraternity and vision for the future of the Society.

The 3rd International Meeting of Vincentian Youth took place from 28 to 30 July 2025, coinciding with the Jubilee Year in Rome. The meeting, titled “Faith that Inspires, Love that Transforms,” gathered 110 youth delegates from across the world, including six delegates from the Oceania region – Solomon Islands, Tonga, Kiribati, Samoa and Australia – supported by the Oceania Territory Youth Coordinator. Representing Australia were Ashley Carvalho (National Youth Representative) and Lachlan Dent (Deputy National Youth Representative).

The gathering was an opportunity to live out Frédéric’s vision, bringing together young people united by the Vincentian charism. Delegates participated in workshops and roundtables designed to inspire both head and heart. Sessions explored practical topics such as supporting the growth of youth committees, discovering new ways of recruitment, sharing stories through social media, and reflecting on how young people are responding with new forms of charity.

Other reflections looked at the importance of national youth coordinators as models of inspiration. Participants were reminded that Vincentians are called to have a mind that plans with a heart that serves – dreaming and organising, while never losing the flame of charity and compassion. Throughout the gathering, International President Juan Manuel Buergo Gómez was a supportive presence. His active involvement affirmed how much the International Council values the vision and leadership of young people.

Ashley and Lachlan journeyed alongside fellow Oceania delegates, sharing their experiences of the Society in Australia while learning about the rich cultures and contexts of our neighbouring countries. This strengthened a sense of fraternity within the region and deepened appreciation for the shared mission that unites 
Vincentians worldwide.

The gathering was also a time of prayer and pilgrimage. Delegates took part in the Jubilee of Youth activities, joining thousands of young pilgrims from across the globe. Together they walked through the Holy Doors, including at the Basilica of St Mary Major where Pope Francis is buried, and some attended Sunday Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV. At this mass, the Pope reminded everyone that “We are not made for a life where everything is taken for granted and static, but for an existence that is constantly renewed through gift of self in love.”

A particular highlight for Ashley and Lachlan was visiting the tombs of Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, two young Vincentians whose lives of faith and service continue to inspire. Both will be canonised on 7 September 2025, offering the Church and the Society shining examples of how young people can live holiness with joy and courage.

Now back in Australia, Ashley and Lachlan are eager to share their learnings with youth networks and the wider Society. They are deeply grateful for the opportunity to travel to Rome, to witness the vitality of the Society worldwide, and to contribute Australia’s voice to the conversation.