St. John’s Vincentian Mission Certificate (VMC) Program: New Cohort Connects with Vincentian History and VMC Alumni
September 16, 2011
With a virtual walk through Vincentian history and a rousing welcome by VMC Alumni, the fifth cohort of the Vincentian Mission Certificate (VMC) Program commenced their sixteen-month journey with the VMC Opening Session and Welcome Dinner, held on September 16, 2011. Led by Rev. John Kettelberger, C.M., University Chaplain, the newest participants of the VMC program relived the Vincentian story through the beautifully crafted mosaics displayed in upper portion of the circular narthex of St. Thomas More Church on the Queens campus. Cohort members learned about St. Vincent de Paul, from his ministry at Chatillon, to his collaborative relationship with St. Louise de Marillac, to examples of how the Catholic and Vincentian mission still thrives at St. John’s University today. Lucy Pesce, Executive Director for Mission, assisted Fr. Kettelberger in helping the cohort understand the expectations and resources available to them as they journey together through the VMC program. “”We’re excited to welcome our newest members to the St. John’s VMC family. As a graduate of the second cohort, I truly understand the bonds made within the program, and the impact the program can have, both personally and professionally.”
The highlight of the evening followed the orientation session, when several VMC Alumni from the previous four cohorts joined the newest members for a celebration dinner. In an informal atmosphere, VMC alumni shared stories of service to the poor; Vincentian heritage trips to Germantown, PA and Paris, France; and life-long connections to their VMC colleagues. Guests were treated to a light-hearted game of “How Much Do You Know About Our VMC Graduates?”, which featured amusing photos and stories of several VMC Alumni over the years.
View the Photo Gallery
The Vincentian Mission Certificate (VMC) Program is a unique professional development and service opportunity that empowers St. John’s University staff, faculty and administrators to live the Vincentian Mission as Mission Leaders. This compelling program strengthens participants’ theoretical understanding of the University mission and its practical applications. Participants learn to better serve students, while acting as role models and inspiring others to follow the spirit of St. Vincent de Paul.
The 16-month program embraces three major components: Education, Service and Reflection. Participants demonstrate their commitment by attending training sessions on Vincentian and Catholicidentity, monthly Vincentian reflections, a capstone retreat and fifty (50) hours of community service — twothirds of which involve direct contact with the poor.
For more information on the Vincentian Mission Certificate (VMC) program or other mission-related inquiries, please contact Lucy Pesce, Executive Director for Mission, at (718) 990-3004 or pescel@stjohns.edu.