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Memorial · September 27

Saint Vincent de Paul, Priest

Saint Vincent de Paul, Priest: Memorial on September 27

WhiteMemorial Sun, September 27, 2026
Saint Vincent de Paul, Priest
What & why

Honoring Saint Vincent de Paul

Saint Vincent de Paul, born on April 24, 1581, in Pouy, France, was a priest renowned for his unwavering dedication to serving the poor and marginalized. After his ordination in 1600, he founded the Congregation of the Mission in 1625, known as the Vincentians, to preach missions and educate clergy. In 1633, he co-founded the Daughters of Charity with Saint Louise de Marillac, establishing the first non-cloistered religious institute of women devoted to active charitable works. Saint Vincent de Paul passed away on September 27, 1660, in Paris, and was canonized in 1737. He is the patron saint of charitable societies, hospitals, and leprosy. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Vincent-de-Paul?utm_source=openai))

The feast day of Saint Vincent de Paul is celebrated on September 27th, honoring his life and the enduring impact of his charitable works. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and service to those in need, encouraging families to reflect on their own roles in promoting charity and social justice within their communities. ([vaticanstate.va](https://vaticanstate.va/en/state-and-government/general-informations/saint-of-the-day/751-27-september-saint-vincent-de-paul.html?utm_source=openai))

History

The Life and Legacy of Saint Vincent de Paul

Saint Vincent de Paul was born into a poor family in the village of Pouy, France, in 1581. He was ordained a priest in 1600 and dedicated his life to serving the poor and marginalized. In 1617, he founded the Confraternities of Charity, later known as the Ladies of Charity, to assist the needy. In 1625, he established the Congregation of the Mission, known as the Vincentians, to preach missions and educate clergy. In 1633, he co-founded the Daughters of Charity with Saint Louise de Marillac, creating the first non-cloistered religious institute of women devoted to active charitable works. Saint Vincent de Paul died on September 27, 1660, in Paris, and was canonized in 1737. He is the patron saint of charitable societies, hospitals, and leprosy. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Vincent-de-Paul?utm_source=openai))

The feast day of Saint Vincent de Paul is celebrated on September 27th, honoring his life and the enduring impact of his charitable works. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and service to those in need, encouraging families to reflect on their own roles in promoting charity and social justice within their communities. ([vaticanstate.va](https://vaticanstate.va/en/state-and-government/general-informations/saint-of-the-day/751-27-september-saint-vincent-de-paul.html?utm_source=openai))

Love the poor. Honour them, my children, as you would honour Christ himself.

— Saint Vincent de Paul

Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.

Matthew 25:40
In sacred art

Symbols & iconography

  • BrazierA brazier, symbolizing the warmth and care provided to the poor.
  • HeartA heart, representing Saint Vincent de Paul's deep compassion and love for the needy.
Living the feast

Customs & traditions

  • Charity Acts

    Engage in acts of charity, such as donating to those in need or volunteering at local shelters.

  • Family Reflection

    Hold a family discussion on the importance of compassion and service to others.

  • Prayer Service

    Organize a prayer service focusing on Saint Vincent de Paul's teachings and legacy.

Why this date

About this date

The feast day is celebrated on September 27th, the anniversary of Saint Vincent de Paul's death in 1660, honoring his life and charitable works.

Questions

Frequently asked

Why is Saint Vincent de Paul considered the patron saint of charitable societies?

Saint Vincent de Paul is recognized as the patron saint of charitable societies due to his extensive work in founding organizations dedicated to serving the poor and marginalized.

What is the significance of the Daughters of Charity?

The Daughters of Charity, co-founded by Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac in 1633, were the first non-cloistered religious institute of women devoted to active charitable works.

How can families honor Saint Vincent de Paul on his feast day?

Families can honor Saint Vincent de Paul by engaging in acts of charity, reflecting on his teachings, and participating in prayer services dedicated to his legacy.

Pray it as a household

Bring the feast into your family’s day

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Saint Vincent de Paul, PriestMemorial · Sun, September 27, 2026