Welcome by Regional President, Mary Waide Brightness coming out of darkness is part of the creative thinking behind our beautiful cover, which was designed by Dympna Gallagher, one of our members. How meaningful for all of us at this time, when we are beginning to feel more optimistic and positive about the way forward moving out of the dreadful fallout of the pandemic which brought the world to a standstill and caused much grief and hardship to so many.
Members have been exceptional in their commitment to giving assistance to those in need and that was not always easy during the past couple of years. Their dedication and perseverance was unwavering and through that, a huge difference was made to many lives. Courage is needed more than ever as many have become fearful and anxious about meeting and socialising. As Vincentians, our core work is in Visitation and we need to safely return to our home visits and to our Conference meetings. This is who we are and how we work. We need the support and friendship of our fellow Conference members. “We should exchange our ideas, our inspirations maybe,
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sometimes our fears and always our hopes.” (Frederic Ozanam) The people we assist need the smiles and friendly faces of the two sympathetic visitors whom they have invited into their homes. “Those who know the way to the home of their poorer brother, whose feet have swept the dust from his staircase, never knock at his door without feelings of respect.” (Frederic Ozanam) Nationally, a new Assessment of Need guidance has been launched and I strongly encourage Conferences to use this as a basis to ensure we are fully meeting the needs of those who request assistance. Our Vincent’s shops are open for business and the staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of our customers. As the face of St Vincent de Paul, our shops are an integral and essential part of the Society and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.
