Overview of The Vincentian Family Tree

The Vincentian Family Tree Project traced the Vincentian Family’s development worldwide and throughout time. It revealed potential for collaboration and for the foundation of a common mission. Questions for reflection on these topics are included. Examples of collaboration are discussed. The Project used an international survey to identify institutes and lay associations that descended from Vincent de Paul. Some were founded by Vincentians, Daughters of Charity, or Vincentian laity. Others were founded using the Common Rules of the Daughters of Charity. Important family groups include the Sisters of Charity Federation and the Trinitarian family in the United States, the German-based Foderation Vincentinischer Gemeinschaften, and the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul of Kerala in India. Many other international groups are recognized in this overview. The laity’s role is also described. The Project’s methodology and criteria are explained and its findings are summarized