Abstract
Vincent de Paul’s approach to formation is discussed. He felt it was essential to keep “the knowledge of Jesus Christ crucified” at the center of such efforts. Jaime Corera offers Vincent’s formation of Antoine Portail and Francois du Coudray as case studies. These two confreres played many important roles in the Congregation, and Vincent adapted his approach to suit the talents and personalities of each man, with varying degrees of success. Vincent’s formation of the clergy is described, which he mainly saw as step toward the greater work of serving the poor. Therefore, humility in the clergy was vital, and priests were only to learn what was useful for their ministries. This practical attitude and Vincent’s self-deprecation gave some the idea that he was uneducated, a misapprehension that still requires correction today.
Recommended Citation
Corera, Jaime C.M.
(1988)
"Saint Vincent de Paul and Human Formation,"
Vincentian Heritage Journal: Vol. 9:
Iss.
1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://via.library.depaul.edu/vhj/vol9/iss1/4