In 1833, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, a 20-year-old law student at the Sorbonne, responded to a challenge: What is your faith doing for the poor? Inspired by the teachings of St. Vincent de Paul, Frédéric and his friends sought to live out their faith through person-to-person encounters with those in need. They combined action with prayer, discussing ways to address the pressing needs of the poor in Paris. Their mission spread quickly, rooted in humility, simplicity, and love.
Today, the Society continues Frédéric’s legacy, serving millions of people worldwide through compassion and personal encounters with those in need.