In 1617, when Vincent was serving as chaplain and tutor to the noble Gondi family, Madame de Gondi asked him to hear the confession of an elderly dying peasant. On realizing that this man knew next to nothing about his religion, Vincent was inspired to consider how the Church might better serve the needs of the rural poor. What happened during this encounter, and shortly thereafter, is often referred to as a “turning-point” for Vincent de Paul. It was an experience that seemed to contribute significantly to a change of heart and mind in how he understood, and would live out, his life’s purpose.

Has there been a moment in your life that crystallized your purpose? How does that turning point relate to your work at DePaul today?