The heart of Vincentianism are the Conference which are usually parish-based groups of 5-8 women and men. These Conferences are united under the District Council. There are 3 types of membership; Active, Associate and Contributing. Also there are Adult Conferences and Young Adult Conferences. Young Adult Conferences are open to Young Men and Women between the ages of 15 and 27. People from a great variety of backgrounds are attracted to the Society. Non-Catholics are welcomed as members. All are usually motivated by the desire to serve the poor. Some are surprised to learn that there is a "novitiate" period. When joining, they are reminded of the need for confidentiality and invited to share in the works immediately. After about 5-6 months, if they decide upon becoming regular members, they are formally installed. A conference of 5-8 people is quite effective. Active membership is a serious commitment. Associate and Contributing membership is available to those who share our beliefs and goals but are unable to make a deeper commitment. SVDP Conferences exist in the following parishes; St. Elizabeth (serving West Oahu), St. John Vianney (serving Windward Oahu) and, Blessed Sacrament (serving East Oahu).
If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact us!
The Society is defined as a Private Association of the Faithful in the Code of Canon Law, intimately attached to the Church not so much by conventions, protocols or regulations, as by love, fidelity and affection. We are incorporated in Hawaii as an IRS Code 501(c)-3 entity, and carry our own liability insurance coverage. Each conference keeps its own bank account(s). All accounts use the same TIN (Federal Tax Number) Liability Insurance. our largest overhead cost, and other overhead costs are paid out of funds provided by the SVdP Social Services Housing Corporation. This insurance covers are members and volunteers. Thus the host parishes are relieved of any liability for our actions. (100%) of all moneys received from churches and the general public are used for direct assistance. Funds are not hoarded at any level, but prudence demands a reasonable reserve be maintained if possible. Periodic reports are required. Accountability to sponsoring parishes is particularly important. This is easily accomplished by semiannual reports to the Pastor. Audits are required annually at each level, District and Conference. We are stewards of the gifts that others give us and must use them wisely. We do not give money to any other organization, no matter how worthy the cause may be. It is essential that the gifts we receive are used as intended by the donors.
Each Conference operates through donations from their associated parishes, members, individual and corporation donations, and surplus cash from our low income apartments, which are operated by our affiliate SVdP Social Services Housing Corporation. All donations are tax deductible. Accountability is strictly enforced. In addition to complying with Internal Revenue service (IRS) laws and accounting rules of the National Council, reports are given to the Bishop of Honolulu, Pastors, and others who provide our support. Formal financial audits are conducted annually and IRS Form 990 reports are posted on our web site, svdphawaii.org.