Abstract
Vincent de Paul’s practice of hospitality is outlined. His welcoming of poor persons at Saint-Lazare is discussed, as is his attention to the treatment of those who were ill at home. Certain types of prisoners were confined to Saint-Lazare for their reformation; Vincent instructed novices to visit them and treat them with compassion. Troubled priests did their penance at the Congregation’s houses. Guests at the houses were also to be welcomed. Hospitality was manifested in Vincent’s attitude toward foreigners and his requirements for those going on missions abroad. Local culture and practices were to be respected, and missionaries were to master the languages of their destinations. His concern for his confreres, whether living in houses or returning from missions, was evident in specific rules. In general, Vincent saw Jesus in everyone, treated them accordingly, and expected his followers to do the same.
Recommended Citation
Rybolt, John E. C.M., Ph.D.
(2016)
"Vincent de Paul and Hospitality,"
Vincentian Heritage Journal: Vol. 33:
Iss.
1, Article 5.
Available at:
https://via.library.depaul.edu/vhj/vol33/iss1/5