By Marge McGinley, National Vincentian Formation Chair
A few weeks ago, I hopped in my car and was greeted by sports radio. That sometimes happens when my husband uses my car. Much to my surprise they were talking about “formation.” Immediately, my ears tuned in rather than switching stations which would often be my response. The commentator was talking about the importance of the football players understanding various formations; they referenced the “playbook”, explaining that if the players dedicate time to study, they will develop an IQ for the sport.
Well, I was immediately struck by these people literally speaking the Vincentian language. Our dear St. Vincent de Paul spoke of the importance of formation. “We have to study in such a way that love corresponds to knowledge.” [CCD XI:116] Our Vincentian hearts are a gift of the Holy Spirit in our lives but we must study, we must be “formed,” so that we become and remain enthused in our service, celebrate our teamwork in friendship, and stay focused on our primary purpose, growing in holiness. We invite you to take the time to read this newsletter and subsequent issues. We are hoping that you will make the time to come to the “well” to find resources and ideas to develop your own Vincentian playbook. As a Spiritual Advisor or a Formator, your knowledge and zeal for the Vincentian vocation allows you to coach or mentor others so that their Vincentian IQ leads them to “see the face of Christ in the poor.”
