In Poland, in the Chełmno-Poznań Province, we have been organizing Vincentian Vacations with God for children and youth for over a dozen years. It is a time of formation, prayer, sightseeing, and having fun together in the great outdoors.
For the past three years, we have been holding them in Ostrzyce, northern Poland, in the Kashubia region, known for its stunning natural beauty. There are hills, lakes, forests, and beautiful places here that are perfect for encounters with God and with others.
Most of the children and youth who participate in “Vacations with God” are involved year-round in the Vincentian Marian Youth groups. That is why we explore topics related to our charism and spirituality. We invite priests from the Congregation of the Mission, Daughters of Charity and senior members of the Vincentian Marian Youth to lead the sessions. That is why we explore topics related to our charism and spirituality. We invite priests from the Congregation of the Mission, Daughters of Charity, and senior members of the Vincentian Marian Youth to lead these sessions.
A year ago, participants learned more about the message and symbolism of the Miraculous Medal. This year, fifty young people explored the spiritual journey of St. Vincent de Paul more closely and discovered how relevant our charism remains today.
Each day, they participated in conferences, formation sessions, the Eucharist, and prayer. They also met witnesses of the faith. For us—the Daughters of Charity and the priests of the Congregation of the Mission—it was a time to return to the roots of our vocation. To help others discover the Vincentian charism, one must first realize why I chose this path and why I follow it.
We spent one day exploring the city of Gdańsk, located on a bay that opens into the Baltic Sea. It was an opportunity to learn about the city’s rich history and our country. We also had time to attend an organ concert.
During this visit, the young participants of “Vacation with God” gave Miraculous Medals to many people, shared the story of the Apparitions, and also presented a picture of St. Vincent. You could see the emotion on many faces.
We thank the good Lord, the Blessed Mother, and St. Vincent for this time of discovering God’s love—a time of friendship and joy.
Sister Lidia Skrzypczak DC
Chełmno-Poznań Province, Poland
