As a group of Catholics, like all Christian denominations, we had been searching for a way to live out the practical side of our faith. Where were the hungry for us to feed, the lonely to befriend and the sick for us to aid? And more to the point, what could we do for them? Now while there are a number of Social Action projects set up by the members of the Student Body at York, we were also looking for something with our faith very much at its roots.

Whilst most of us had heard of the St. Vincent de Paul society (SVP) not many of us knew how to get involved or what they really did. So in the Spring term last year, the President of the St George’s SVP conference came along to enlighten us with particular reference as to how we, as students, could participate.

The SVP was inspired by a Seventeenth century Catholic Saint called Vincent de Paul who devoted his life to giving practical Christian help to those around him. His good works encouraged others to help as well and the movement of small groups of Christians helping those in need and offering simple help has grown ever since. It was initially led by need to feed and aid the poor, but this aim grew to include the alleviation of the real spiritual destitution of the poor through offering them Christ.

Cassoc have therefore joined up with St. George’s SVP. Some of us are helping with a new project they have set up, befriending patients at the Retreat hospital. Very many of them are short of visitors and young people, by giving up just an hour of their time can make someone’s week just that bit happier.

Others have been helping out with the soup kitchen at St. George’s presbytery where about 200 people go each week. Again, simply giving out a hot drink, a roll and a smile makes a difference. As Christians we ask no questions but hold out our hands to help, for God is everywhere and if we turn away the least of our brothers we turn Him away too.

We are also participating in visiting those who are housebound or who would simply appreciate a visit and have a chat about absolutely anything. Last week I was given an in depth report on the Spice Girls performance with Vera Lynn — of course Vera was better.

Not only are we giving, but we are getting back. It is only through giving that we may receive, and the affection and thanks I receive back are far greater than anything I could give. I would ask you all to pray for us in our work and for those we help and those tonight who are cold, lonely or sad.

If you wish to know anymore or would like to get involved, please e-mail me on lcc100@york.ac.uk.

As the hymn says:

Lord you sent me to give the good news to the poor,
Tell blind people that they can see
And set the downtrodden free
And go tell everyone the news that
The Kingdom of God has come

Just as the Father sent me
So I’m sending you out to be
My witnesses throughout the world
The whole of the world.

(From Isaiah 61 v1-3)

Sometimes witness works better wen we don’t even need to mention God’s name, when His love simply shines through us.

Louise Crinnon