Compassion means allowing another person’s suffering to enter our own heart, Bunbury Bishop George Kolodziej SDS has said.
Delivering the homily at the 160th Anniversary Regional Mass of the St Vincent de Paul Society WA held at Our Lady of the Bay Catholic Church, Busselton, Bishop George reflected on the compassion of Christ and the vital role that compassion continues to play in the Society’s mission today.
“The beautiful thing about the St Vincent de Paul Society is that its mission has never been only about providing assistance; it has always been about human dignity,” he said.
“A food parcel can feed a family for a few days. But compassion tells a person: ‘You matter. You are not forgotten. You are loved. You are not alone’.”
Turning to the unique ministry of presence that has long defined the Society’s work, Bishop George said sometimes the greatest poverty is not material poverty.
“Sometimes it is loneliness. Sometimes it is feeling invisible. Sometimes it is losing hope.”
He praised the generations of dedicated Vincentians who have visited people in their homes, listened without judgement and offered practical support during some of their most difficult moments.
“For 160 years, countless volunteers have become the hands of Christ, the voice of encouragement, the presence of hope, and the face of compassion,” he said.
His message resonated deeply with the Vincentians, staff and supporters gathered, serving as a powerful reminder that the Society’s work is not just about providing material needs, but also giving hope through kindness and compassion.
In his opening address, WA State President Danny Cloghan reflected on the Society’s enduring mission and acknowledged the countless Vincentians whose dedication has strengthened communities across WA since 1865.
“Today we celebrate not only our history, but the people who have carried forward the spirit of St Vincent de Paul for 160 years,” he said.
“Through times of challenge and change, our members have continued to walk alongside those in need with compassion, respect and hope.”
Bringing together representatives from across Perth and the southwest to honour generations of members who have supported West Australians experiencing hardship, the Mass also included the recommitment by 40 Vincentians to the ‘Good Works’ of the Society.
Following the Mass, attendees shared a light lunch and took the opportunity to reconnect, exchange stories, and reflect on the Society’s rich 160-year history.
