The Society is live and active

Peter Houweling has travelled far and wide over the past six months seeing the good works of the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW in action.

“The atmosphere of the Society is really good – very collegial and friendly – our Conferences are live and active.”

Heading north to Yamba, south to Albury and west to Dubbo among the many stops in his travels as State Council President, Peter has felt a profound appreciation for the dedication of all the Society’s people – members, volunteers and employees – who show compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to those in need.

“I have met Vincentians who embody our mission daily, offering not just material assistance but hope, dignity, and human connection.” 

Representing the Society’s membership during an uncertain period defined by cost of living pressures and increasingly frequent natural disasters, the Society in NSW has managed to stand in contrast to other states and territories with member and volunteer numbers growing healthily through a considered membership strategy. 

Engaging with as many members as possible is central to Peter’s priorities as President. He has also identified reforming governance procedures as an area of focus in order to enable greater participation for young people in Conferences and leadership roles. 

Through engaging with members to understand how the Society can best support their good works, Peter has taken the responsibility of stewardship to heart.

“At its core, stewardship is about ensuring that every action, decision, and resource is used to honour the Society’s mission of serving the poor, vulnerable, and marginalised not just today, but for generations to come.”

As a steward of a Christian faith-based charity, Peter has sought to keep the focus on members and the values that have endured over time.

Recently, however, that focus temporarily shifted with friends, family and Society leadership coming together for a commission mass held at St Francis Xavier Cathedral in Wollongong.

“I am deeply thankful for the welcome, help, and thoughtfulness of everyone I have met. The Society is truly a special group of people united by a shared commitment to prayer and walking alongside those in need.”

“Six months in, I am more inspired than ever. With faith, stewardship, and a deep sense of purpose, we will continue to serve with compassion, integrity, and hope.”