The Spirit of Humility is very central to the spirituality of the Society of St Vincent de Paul. This is because humility helps to increase the holiness of its members which is the primary purpose of SSVP. We need humility to properly live, to find meaning in every situation, to be transcendental and to be genuinely happy. Humility is the acknowledgement of our place in the great nest of being (Genesis 1.1-31); that we are not the core or center of creation. It is the virtue that helps us to truly and really become human. It is the basic pathway to happiness (Genesis 2.25). Consequently, as Vincentians we are called to grow in the spirit of humility.
How we can grow in humility?
- Knowing, accepting and believing that all you have and will ever have comes
from God (1 Corinthians 4:7). - Identifying one’s sense of entitlement and let go off it.
- Holding on to the truth that we live for God (Romans 14:8), and that we are made
to live for God. - Intentionally practicing surrendering of our wills for God’s. It is a simple though
not an easy thing to do. We can form the discipline of asking God “Jesus, how do
you want me to help the poor around me”, how do you want me to carry out this
duty bestowed on me by my community?” - Making frequent confession which greatly helps to deflate the ego’s defenses
and promote humility. - Regular adoration (taking up Jesus by his words in Matthew 11:28-29) and hearty
prayers. - Modelling after the Saints such as our patrons (St. Vincent de Paul, Bl. Fredric
Ozanam, St. Marguerite d’Youville, Bl. Rosalie Rendu and St. Louise de
Marillac). This we can do by intentionally letting their examples inspire us and
spur us to action in our time.
Fr Kelvin, Spiritual Advisor, St Michael Conference