Simplicity is a very important virtue. The Rule tells us that it is characterised by frankness, integrity and genuineness. I also believe that it is characterised by authenticity, by saying what we mean and meaning what we say. Saint Vincent spoke often of simplicity.

Simplicity is the virtue I love the most and to which, I think, I pay the most attention in my actions; and, if it is permissible for me to say so, I would say that I am practising it with some progress by the mercy of God. [1]

From this time on, may that loving heart belong only to Jesus Christ, fully and always, in time and in eternity! Please ask Him to give me a share of the candour and simplicity of your heart because I have very great need of these virtues, whose excellence is unfathomable. [2]

In these words, we see how Vincent valued simplicity and was always working on being simpler. As we follow in Vincent’s footsteps, may we be characterised by the genuineness, authenticity and gentleness that we learn from him.

Humility is a virtue that can be difficult to translate into today’s language, however, in an article written in 2007, Tom Frame, Australian Anglican Bishop, reflected on humility in a helpful way. 

The humble have an ability to recognise and to celebrate greatness for its own sake and do not feel personally diminished in complementing others. Disinterestedness and self-forgetfulness mark the attitude of the humble. [3]

Vincent wrote to a brother in 1652:

Practise humility and patience; you need these two virtues to attain true charity, and they are also necessary for all who wish to serve Jesus Christ.[4]

We are reminded that in our service of people in need we should not come from a place of power but from humility to be truly able to serve the other.

Jesus reminds us that the ‘truth will set us free’ (John 8:32). Humility and simplicity are virtues that can help us to search for this truth. 

[1] CCD vol 1 p265
[2] CCD Vol 6 p161
[3] Tom Frame, Humility the Despised Virtue, Quadrant April 2007, 38.
[4] CCD Vol 4, 442-443.

Sister Therese Haywood DC is a Daughter of Charity and Spiritual Adviser to St Vincent de Paul Society.