Why are there five provinces of
Vincentians in the USA?
The five provinces formed as the Vincentian community expanded
ministries over the last 40 years, a similar situation to many
other religious communities.
Is the province where a candidate lives
and makes application the same place where he does formation and is
ordained or vowed as a brother?
Usually, yes. Most candidates enter a discernment and formation
program linked to a specific province. Becoming familiar with
members and ministries of one’s province is most important.
Do Vincentians ever live and work in
provinces outside their original one?
Yes, and happily, with increasing frequency. In recent years,
provinces have made concerted efforts to share ‘manpower and
ministries’, and the result has been a very beneficial one. In
fact, Vincentians in certain works have organized yearly national
meetings that rotate among provinces to share ideas and strategies.
Also, there are opportunities for Vincentians to volunteer for
‘international missions’ directed by the Superior General in Rome
who writes an annual appeal letter.
What are some examples of national
collaboration between Vincentians?
Two examples quickly come to mind. A nation-wide group of
Vincentians who minister to Hispanics have met annually for the
last two years, with positive results. Also, this vocation web site
is our first national Vincentian media project, a result of years
of collaboration between the five provincial vocation
directors.