What Must Be Done?

Empowering students with the Vincentian Charism

Dear Friends,

St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac devoted their entire lives to serving and evangelizing those living in poverty. Living in times of great turmoil and suffering, Vincent and Louise sought a response to the lingering question, “What must be done?”

Their answer to that question was the founding of a new group of religious women ~ the Daughters of Charity. For nearly four centuries, the Daughters of Charity have served the poor and vulnerable, recognizing that “in serving persons who are poor, we serve Jesus Christ himself”- St. Vincent de Paul.  

Today, the Daughters of Charity continue to ask the question, “ What must be done?” Through their various ministries, the Daughters of Charity work tirelessly to address the immediate needs of those living in poverty, while simultaneously working towards systemic change to prevent poverty itself. 

The Daughters of Charity continue to respond to the question of “What must be done” through their system of schools. Children in their ten schools are empowered to break the cycle of poverty, with many becoming the first in their families to graduate high school or attend college. 

Our schools are deeply rooted in the spirituality of the Daughters of Charity and embody our spirit of compassion, humility, and a deep commitment to social justice for the marginalized and impoverished. This approach to how we serve those most in need is the Vincentian Charism. 

This unique spirituality known as the Vincentian Charism is nurtured in every student and staff member in Daughters of Charity schools. The two-fold approach of a life-changing education ingrained with the Vincentian charism empowers students to be future leaders and agents of change in their communities.  

With gratitude,

Sr. Adella Armentrout, D.C.

Daughters of Charity Education Ministry Councilor