The CONFERENCE is the grass-roots level in which the majority of us serve the poor. We bring comfort the way Jesus did, person-to-person. Sometimes we just listen or offer a compassionate word. In emergencies we bring needed financial aid, food, and referrals, without judging. Vincentians believe each contact with the needy is an opportunity to meet Jesus. Or as Mother Teresa of Calcutta has called them, "Christ in a distressing disguise". Maintaining the client's dignity and confidentiality are critical factors of this ministry. Just as poverty and suffering do not discriminate against whom they visit, neither does the Vincentian discriminate against those who seek help.

The DISTRICT COUNCIL is a grouping of conferences for the purpose of maintaining spiritual unity and communication within a geographical area. The Santa Cruz District Council was formed in 1969 as a non-profit corporation which joins together all of the conferences within Santa Cruz County. The presidents of each conference are ex-officio members of this council. Outside the local area, aid is shared through the national and worldwide organizations of councils. After the 1989 earthquake hit our area, councils from all over the country sent us aid to distribute. Our council likewise sent aid to the conferences in the East and the Midwest during their hurricanes and floods. Our council operates a NEED LINE in order to make contact with those in need.

Ministries and Works of Mercy