The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) installed its new executive at its Annual General Meeting held at Norton Hall on 31 March 2019 under the theme “SSVP a Positive Force for Change in the Lives of the Poor and Marginalised.”
The new executive is comprised of members with a wide range of skills and experience drawn from all districts throughout the island where the SSVP Councils operate.
The society has a membership in excess of 200 and focuses primarily on serving the needs of the poor and marginalised. There was a large turnout of members representing all 5 councils throughout Grenada and Carriacou. Members of the clergy also attended including Bishop Clyde Harvey, Fr. Carl Haynes and Fr. Nolan Dermot.
The feature address was presented by Sr. Lucy Gabriel. She challenged members to continue to be the voice of the voiceless and to recognise the important role which they must play in matters pertaining to the poor and marginalised. Fr. Carl Haynes urged members to focus on the positive attributes of others instead of negativity. Bishop Clyde Harvey stressed on the importance of the society to the church and on the need for the Society to adapt and make changes in tandem with its operating environment.
Outgoing President Margaret Wilson thanked members for the support which she received during her tenure and urged them to continue supporting the work of the society. Incoming President Mary Charles called on members to find new and creative ways to serve those most in need. She stressed on the need for the society to work for social justice and on the importance of understanding and adhering to the Vincentian Principles. She stated, “Our service to others must take precedence, our desire to better the lives of others must motivate us, our respect for the poor and vulnerable must guide our actions.”
The new executive pledged to build on and expand the good works of the society.
SSVP
