The Society is a ‘lay Catholic organization whose mission is to live the gospel message by serving Christ in the poor with love, respect, justice and joy. As Vincentians we see Christ in anyone who suffers, come together as a family, have personal contact with the poor and help in all possible ways.’ (National Council of Canada)
In Kelowna there are 5 conferences (St Charles Garnier, Immaculate Conception, St. Pius X, Corpus Christi and Our Lady of Lourdes parishes).
We belong to the Particular Council of the Okanagan along with St Ann’s in Penticton. We answer the call to help our neighbours in need, mostly with emergency food hampers but also with emergency help with utility bills, rent, furniture etc. and always with confidentiality. We meet every 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month at 9:00 in the church hall. The main focus of this meeting is to report on the previous two weeks of home visits which are carried out by pairs of Vincentians. We spend time organizing various activities in support of this mission and nurturing spirituality, solidarity and friendship.
Under the auspices of the Particular Council we support our 'special works'. One is Ozanam House, a recovery house for men, founded by local Vincentians in conjunction initially with BC Housing. It is now operated under its own Board of Directors which is always looking for new members. All Vincentians are voting members. The second special work is ‘InVincible Housing’ which grew out of the 5 conferences dealing with more and more requests for help with rent.
The parishioners of St. Charles Garnier support this important ministry with donations every month on St Vincent de Paul Sunday. If you might be interested in joining our Vincentian family or have any questions, please call our answering service and leave a message at 250-860-2536
