The Duquesne chapter of St. Vincent de Paul Society is part of an organization that spans across the world to bring hope and compassion to those with all types of need. Begun in 1833 by a young college student in Paris, France, the Society continues to fulfill the same goal of its founding members: to demonstrate the Christian way of life through acts of love and service.   Our chapter’s main ministry is working with the homeless of downtown Pittsburgh. Every Sunday night we gather at 7:00PM in Laval House, and we prepare food for our homeless friends downtown. Not only do we bring food, but also clothing, and our open hearts. As we walk downtown together, we visit some of our long-time friends while also meeting new ones along our route. Sometimes they share stories or their concerns with us, and we listen and try to help as best we can. By ministering to their spiritual and personal needs and desires, we show solidarity with them. We confirm their dignity as human persons.

Once a week we gather our meeting and reflection. We meet in the Spritan Campus Ministry Center in Towers LLC to discuss the upcoming "business" items, but we also take time to reflect using scripture and other genres. These meetings are a time to discuss and think about the week's previous experiences of service and ministry. By reflection on acts of kindness, both personal and communal, we ultimately grow in understanding.

Also through the semester, we share our time with other populations. Several times each semesterwe make breakfast on a weekend morning for residents at Family House, a residential facility for out-of-town hospital patients and their families. We have also assisted with Shepherd;s Wellness, an outreach program for individuals with AIDS and their families.

The Duquesne chapter is opten to all students, faculty, and staff who are committed to ministry on any level. We welcome you to join us at 7:00 PM on Sunday nights at Laval House, or a tour weekly meetings (times listed below) Come join in our solidarity with our fellow Vincentians throughout the world. For additional information on Duquesne's St. Vincent de Paul Society, please contact Matt Walsh walshmj@duq.edu.

WEEKLY REFLECTION MEETING TIME: Sundays @ 7:00pm Laval House