A common Vincentian story told at DePaul is often referred to as the story of the white tablecloth. This story serves as an example of Vincentian hospitality and holistic care. Vincent de Paul believed in creating spaces of connection and serving both the physical and spiritual needs.
In the foundational documents and rules established for the Confraternity in Châtillon-les-Dombes in 1617, Vincent de Paul explained the careful attention necessary when seeking to serve those in need. He recommended that missioners lay out a white cloth before serving food to a person in need, and that they engage in kind and cheerful conversation to better understand the context of that person’s story. (1)
The attentive care communicated through laying down a tablecloth and engaging in conversation reflect a recognition of the sacred dignity of those being served, as well as the essential relational dimension of human interaction, breaking down the distinction between “us” and “them.”
The VIA Way of Dialogue cannot be accomplished unless we create space in our hearts to listen to the stories of those we encounter. In our interactions, we are invited to practice hospitality and holistic care knowing that sometimes the smallest things can make a very big difference.
Questions for reflection:
- Share a story of how someone has spread a white tablecloth of hospitality for you. How did it feel?
- How might you create a space of welcome and hospitality? How do you envision practicing Vincentian hospitality in your service?
- When did you experience a moment when you felt the barriers of “us” and “them” were broken down?
1) See Document 126, Charity of Women, (Châtillon-Les-Dombes), 1617, CCD, 13b:13; and Document 130, Charity of Women, (Montmirail – II), CCD, 13b:40. At: https://via.library.depaul.edu/vincentian_ebooks/38/.
Vincentian historian, Fr. John Rybolt, C.M., tells the full story in this video, describing the spirit with which Vincent wanted his followers to care for the poor: