“Serviens in Spe.”
This international motto means “serving in hope,” and sums up the Vicentian attitude about our charitable mission.
This motto accompanies the international emblem. From one Vicentian website:
“The Fish is the symbol of Christianity and in this case represents the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The eye of the Fish is the caring eye of God looking for ways to help the poor and underprivileged in our midst. The crossing at the tail or a tie-knot represents unity and oneness among members and also in union with the poor. The circle signifies the global stature of the SVDP, an international Confederation.”
“To become better--do a little good.” (Bl. Frederic Ozanam, founder)
“Stand your ground, find common ground." (on expressing Christian commitment, from sermon by Fr. Jos Karakatil)
“We need service--and sanctuary” (on need to be prayerful and reflective in serving the poor, from presentation at SVdP Annual Dinner 2007, Bishop Francis Quinn)
“The Resurrection, Easter, is the very foundation of our faith, our hope, our love. Everything in the Church commences when, like those two disciples on the road to Emmaus that first Easter, we recognize Jesus as risen from the dead. The Church herself begins.” (New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan, from homily at installation mass, April 15, 2009)
"Continue your (Lenten) commitment." (Fr. Nicholas Ho, from Easter homily on the need to continue Christian commitment through the Easter season and beyond, April 8, 2012)
