Fr. Joel Rescober, rector and parish priest of the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and Saint Vincent De Paul Parish in Manila urged the faithful to follow the example of St. Vincent de Paul and be inspired by his love and service to the poor.

“St. Vincent de Paul lived at a time of intense poverty in France. In order to help the poor, St. Vincent influenced the rich and did the best he can to move the government into action to help alleviate the plight of the poor and the needy,” said Fr. Rescober over Radio Veritas.
The Church leader made the statement as the nation marked World Day for the Eradication of Poverty on Oct. 17.
Poverty, the priest said, remains as a long standing problem in the country.
“That is why, the Church continues to initiate programs for the poor. We continue to organize and strengthen poverty alleviation programs to help the poor sector of society,” said Fr. Rescober.
“Let’s encourage everyone to help. We can only resolve this problem when we’re united and in solidarity with the poor. Let us not only help but also make a stand for their rights,” he added.
St. Vincent de Paul is known as the Patron Saint of All Charitable institutions. His feast day is on Sept. 27.
The United Nations observes the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on Oct. 17 every year to help spread awareness on the plight of about 700 million people worldwide who are experiencing extreme poverty.