A Daughter of Charity
A day in the life of a Daughter of Charity living in the local community of St Vincent’s Centre, Central London is inspired by love. Every day the God of surprises guides us towards people who are carrying the hardships and poverties of our times.
Our day begins with personal prayer, reflection and contemplation, seeking to know His will and presenting to Him the life and needs of those who are living in poverty. Morning and evening Liturgy of the Hours brings us together for the prayer of the people of God and celebration of the Eucharist, which is the centre of our life and mission and an indispensable meeting each day with Christ. We are fortunate to be within close proximity of Westminster Cathedral parish, and on special Feast Days celebrate the Eucharist in our Chapel.
Community is our primary place of belonging we live together, supporting each other in our common mission of service.
Our service of Christ to those who live in poverty is our fundamental call to live in community; the services provided from St Vincent’s Centre since 1863 have changed through the years, in response to the signs of the times. The local community are involved in various ministries in the wider community, Vincentian Care Plus began its service 6 years ago from this house, responding to the needs of older people living in their own homes in Westminster. The sisters support the work of The Passage, a Day Centre for people who are homeless and often out of hours and weekends receive many requests from individuals and families seeking refuge who are estranged from their families and their homelands for one reason or another and have found themselves alone and on the streets. We listen to their needs and assist if we can or we guide them towards other agencies that can support them further.
Hospitality has always been a feature of this house and deals on a daily basis with a variety of enquiries
- People in need of accommodation…
- Advice…both practical and emotional
- A listening ear…
- People in desperate need of prayers for themselves and/or friends and family…
- Deliveries of food and clothing for the homeless…
Jesus said, “The poor you will always have with you” and where they are we, The Daughters of Charity also will be.
Please click here to watch a video about the Daughters of Charity.