Justice and faith in Sunnyside: New SVdP conference forms to fight local issues

The reestablished Society of St. Vincent de Paul Conference at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Sunnyside was commissioned on Feb. 28 at the south Houston area parish at Mass. The ministry’s commissioning marked the launch of a new parish initiative to provide emergency housing and utility assistance to neighbors in its surrounding community, which is rapidly gentrifying. (Photo courtesy of St. Francis Xavier Parish)SUNNYSIDE — On Feb. 28, Catholics from across the Archdiocese met in Sunnyside at St. Francis Xavier Parish to commission its newly reestablished St. Vincent de Paul Society (SVdP) conference. The commissioning marked the launch of a new parish initiative to provide emergency housing and utility assistance to neighbors in this rapidly gentrifying community, located in south Houston. 

The commissioning service took place during the parish’s 5 p.m. Mass, representing a significant step in St. Francis Xavier’s expanding commitment to the surrounding historically Black, under-resourced neighborhood. As gentrification accelerates and economic conditions soften, housing instability has increased, with rents rising faster than household incomes.

“Houston is facing a growing poverty crisis, with alarming rates of hunger and evictions, and the community surrounding St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church is especially vulnerable,” said Father Michael L. Thompson, SSJ, pastor of the parish. “In recent months, we have witnessed an inspiring labor of love, as Catholics from across Houston have banded together and taken collective action to ensure that our neighbors can meet their most basic needs.”

The reestablished SVdP conference at St. Francis Xavier Church aims to provide emergency financial assistance to individuals and families facing eviction, utility shutoffs, and other urgent financial hardships. 

Through prayer, service and personal accompaniment, conference members are committed to offering compassionate, practical support. Official operations are expected to begin in April, with funding supported through donations and grants.

Representatives from SVdP conferences around the Archdiocese attended the commissioning service in a show of solidarity and support. These experienced Vincentians, who are engaged in similar efforts across the city, have played a vital role in mentoring the new conference members, guiding them through the extensive training required to conduct confidential home visits and responsibly distribute emergency aid.

“On a day when news of war weighed heavily on the world, it felt especially meaningful to see Houstonians gather in faith to support neighbors and friends in need. The moment was truly inspiring. We are striving to lead by example while following our faith,” said Linda Wallace, who serves on the parish’s communications team. “The meeting ... was truly wonderful. It’s rare to see such a diverse group of people learning together and growing together in ways that deepen both love and mutual respect. Vincentians from across Houston came out to support St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, and they thoroughly enjoyed the Mass and commissioning ceremony for our new conference of the SVdP.”

Val Senegal, executive director of SVdP of Galveston-Houston, said, “This occasion is the fruit of silent prayer and a seed planted back in 2023. It stands as a testament that God hears every prayer and answers in His perfect time. What we are witnessing... is not only the commissioning of a conference, but the fulfillment of grace that has been quietly growing for years.”

Bob Miller, SVdP regional director, said, “The reestablishment of this vital conference is also a powerful sign of hope for the Sunnyside community. The Vincentians at St. Francis Xavier have demonstrated extraordinary dedication in preparing for this ministry and are now well equipped to serve neighbors with compassion, accountability and respect for their dignity.”

Through home visits, Vincentians build personal relationships with those they serve — listening to their stories, responding to immediate crises, and offering encouragement and hope. The newly commissioned conference will collaborate closely with existing Vincentian networks across Houston to ensure effective outreach and responsible stewardship of resources.

“Sunnyside is a community that is sustained by decent folks whose strength, generosity and grit define the community far more than its challenges,” said Erica Smith, president of the St. Francis Xavier SVdP conference. “With the support and guidance of our fellow Vincentians across the City, we are preparing to respond to the critical needs by offering not only financial assistance, but also understanding, prayer and hope.”