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St. Vincent de Paul Conference
“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you made me welcome, naked and you clothed me,”
Matthew 23:35-36
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a worldwide Catholic lay organization. Its core values are service to people in need, friendship among members, and growth in spirituality. The Society is typically formed into Conferences in a parish setting. Our St. Albert Conference was formed in 2013.
Our primary ministry is going in pairs to meet face-to-face with those in need in their homes to hear their stories of struggle. In that family setting, we listen, offer humble advice and respond to their needs. We get calls for help in maintaining utility service, avoiding eviction or gas to go to work or medical appointments. Other opportunities for our members include fundraising activities such as Donut Sunday, the Cantata Dinner, and the Quilt Show Luncheons. In January there is the “Recycle the Warmth” blanket drive.
Resources to provide assistance to those we serve come solely from the St. Albert Parish Family. The thrift stores play a critical role in helping provide funds to operate a food pantry, pharmacy, and housing programs in Madison but Conferences are not part of or funded by the stores.
Our members meet twice a month. Our meetings are listed in the bulletin and on the parish calendar. Each member is encouraged to participate at a level that their schedule and interests permit. We invite you to become a member of St. Albert Conference and join us in our effort to bring respect and help to our Sun Prairie neighbors in need. Even a few hours of your time are precious to those in need. You are welcome to attend one of our meetings or for more information contact the St. Albert Parish Office at (608) 837-3798.
You can learn more about the work of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Dane County by going to www.svdpmadison.org.
Kathy Radford, Conference President