“Do not worry over much. Abandon yourself to the Providence of God and be very careful not to run ahead of it.” –St. Vincent de Paul

“Do not be upset if things are not as you would want them to be for a very long time to come. Do the little you can very peacefully and calmly so as to allow room for the guidance of God in your lives. Do not worry about the rest.” –St. Louise de Marillac

These quotes of our founders are more relevant than ever as we share the charism of charity in our wounded world.

The Vincentian Family North American leadership team approved the hiring of a convener for the next gathering of the Vincentian Family which will occur in 2021. It is more critical than ever that we invite our younger Family members to deepen relationships and strengthen effective collaboration as a Vincentian Family. In these days of unknowns, we are called to discern how to challenge injustice and create positive systemic change in our wounded world.

Please join me in welcoming Sister Melissa Camardo, SCL, who was hired to work with a committee of appointed Family members to plan the next gathering. The hiring committee had several outstanding candidates who live the charism with zeal and hope.

Melissa was drawn to the language of preferential option for the poor when she worked with the Colorado Vincentian Volunteers in 1996. She writes, “The way we formed a reflective, spiritual, striving community…” led to her discernment to enter the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. Melissa is an active part of the Sisters of Charity Federation, and we are grateful for her many gifts shared so generously.

Melissa has had 12 years of experience as a nonprofit leader in health care and social services. In her current ministry at LifeWay Network in Queens, New York, she accompanies women survivors of human trafficking and manages donor relations, event management, grant writing, government funding and collaboration with corporate partnerships. The Vincentian Family is blessed to share with Melissa.

We will keep you updated as plans unfold for the event.

Sister Grace Hartzog, SC
Executive Director, Sisters of Charity Federation