Tuesday, September 27, 2022

 

Memorial of Saint Vincent de Paul, priest

(Job 3:1-3.11-17.20-23; Luke 9:51-56)

Today’s gospel indicates a turning point in the life of Jesus.  St. Luke writes that Jesus decided to go to Jerusalem to complete his mission in the world.  St. Vincent de Paul made a similar decision sometime between 1610 and 1620.

St. Vincent was born into a peasant French family in 1580.  He was able to go to school and pursue a priestly vocation.  He was ordained in 1600.  Showing impressive ability, Vincent sought benefices from the aristocracy.  In 1608 he came under the influence of spiritual masters Pierre de BĂ©rulle and, later, under Francis de Sales.  They showed him how to pursue God, not fame or fortune.  Vincent then dedicated himself to serving the poor.  He co-founded the Daughters and Sisters of Charity and established the Congregation of Missioners, who bear his name to this day.

Catholic converts often make a definitive decision to follow Jesus closely.  Those “born Catholics” must make a similar choice.  Participating in cultural religious activities does not lead to salvation.  Steadfastly following Christ by a life of prayer and charity takes us close to God.