While the term “advocacy” certainly carries with is some modern political connotations, it is a word, and a concept that is central to our Catholic and Vincentian way of living our faith. Christ Himself is our advocate, after all. [Catechism, 519] In turn, Christ gave to us “another advocate” in the Holy Spirit.
It is in this sense that we are called to be advocates for the poor – not as political lobbyists, but as friends, helping the voices of the poor whom we have come to know be heard, or when needed to speak on their behalf. [Rule, Part I, 7.5] Our special perspective comes from the personal knowledge we gain through the relationships we form with those we serve. We do more than walk a mile in their shoes, we visit them in the homes and neighborhoods, and truly try to see and feel things from their perspective.
St. Vincent de Paul was a passionate advocate on behalf of the poor people whose lives were devastated by the ravages of war and epidemics, pleading for the end of those wars, and seeking to alleviate systemic suffering. Through his efforts, more humane prisons were built for the galley prisoners, money was allocated for victims of war, and laws dealing with poverty were changed.
Bl. Frédéric, while continuing as a member of the Society for his entire life, also found a newspaper, L’ere Nouvelle, in 1848 in which he published commentary on social issues and social justice, giving voice to the views he had formed while serving the poor.
