Become a Member
Be a Member
Members are passionate about helping those in need in their local community. They provide practical assistance to address the immediate needs of people in their own community such as emergency assistance and personalized support.
Members work together in groups known as ‘Conferences’ that are usually attached to parishes, schools, universities, social groups, workplaces or groups of individuals from the local area. Conferences meet regularly so members can share their experiences and monitor and discuss local needs.
Members walk alongside and empower people who are experiencing disadvantage. They live their faith in action by visiting people in their homes or in the community, providing friendship and support to those they serve and to each other. They are called to seek out the poor and marginalized wherever they may be.
If you would like to change lives in your community please contact us.
“ The poor have much to teach you. You have much to learn from them”
St Vincent de Paul
Do members have to be Catholic?
No. The St Vincent de Paul Society welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs. The Society is a Catholic lay organisation however, exploring and sharing our Vincentian spirituality is an integral component. To enable a full experience and individual acts of service, members are encouraged to be open to prayer and reflection.
What is Vincentian spirituality?
Those who seek to live their lives and their faith in the spirit of St Vincent de Paul are known as Vincentians. Central to Vincentian spirituality is:
- To see Christ in the poor and marginalised
- To be one with the poor
- To serve with humility, authenticity, and without judgment
- To give of one’s self, rather than the simple provision of material assistance
Vincentian’s see their work as a continuation of Christ’s own work.
Who do members help?
The Society’s members help anyone in need, regardless of their background, culture, religion or political opinion. One of the principle tenets of the Society is to meet people where they are; be it in their home, in hospital, on the street.
What age can I become involved with the Society?
- Mini Vinnies – 4 to 12 years (primary school age)
- High School/College Conferences – 12 to 18 years (secondary school age)
- Youth & Young Adult Conferences – 17 to 35 years
- Society Members – 18 years +
How much time/commitment is required to be a member?
The Society recognises that the level of involvement members can commit to will vary depending on their personal circumstances such as; study, work, and family commitments.
Meetings and opportunities to engage in acts of service occur during and outside business hours, dependent on the local membership. While it varies from conference to conference, members generally meet fortnightly and those participating in home visitation, usually do so on a weekly basis.
Are there leadership opportunities for members?
There are lots of opportunities for members to contribute to the leadership of the Society. This includes formal positions such as; president, treasurer and secretary roles within conferences, regions, states and nationally; as well as volunteer coordinators and/or representatives for special programs and services, youth representatives, spiritual advisers, again at all levels of the Society’s organisational structure. Of equal importance are opportunities to mentor and journey with fellow Members in their Vincentian journey.
What support is provided to members?
The St Vincent de Paul Society provides ongoing training and formation opportunities to support members in their service to those in need and to deepen their understanding and expression of the Society’s mission. This includes training in; Society programs, Workplace Health and Safety, Child protection, as well as formation opportunities such as; retreats, festival days, pilgrimages and immersion programs, and more.