Daily Inspirations

Frédéric Ozanam and the Oblates of Mary Immaculate

On August 22, 1997, Pope John-Paul II declared as “Blessed” Frédéric Ozanam, founder of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Much was said on this occasion. He was recalled as a great layman, deeply Christian, husband and family man, university professor, social reformer and friend of the poor. Emphasis was placed on the beginnings of his “conferences of charity”, when on April 23, 1833, at the young age of twenty, he brought together six university companions in Paris, and involved them in a movement which in a few years spread throughout France, as well as in Rome, London, Munich, Brussels and Algiers. He said at one time: “My desire is to enfold the world in a network of charity.” And in those days, when capitalism was exerting its ravages among the poor populace of the land, Ozanam and his companions were quietly making weekly visits to needy families. They followed the guidance of Sister Rosalie Rendu, a Daughter of Charity and true Mother Teresa of the 19^th Century. Gifts of food, firewood, clothing, etc. were distributed. Sister Rosalie advised these young gentlemen: “Above all, learn to respect my poor, to love them, and especially, not to judge them.” (more…)